Over the weekend, a wave of notifications arrived in the inboxes of federal scientists, doctors, and public health experts informing them that their positions were no longer required. At the National Institutes of Health—a leading biomedical research agency—around 1,200 employees, including many promising young investigators who were on track for significant roles in the future, have been let go.
one that placed recent public health graduates in local health departments and another designed to nurture the next generation of Ph.D. laboratory scientists. However, the agency’s Epidemic Intelligence Service, known for its role in tracking outbreak patterns around the globe, seems to have been spared, possibly in response to a strong reaction from its alumni after a majority of its members were informed of their termination.
This move comes as President Trump’s broader strategy to trim the federal workforce takes shape, affecting thousands of civil servants. The timing of these cuts, amid the coronavirus pandemic—the most severe public health emergency in a century—has experts warning that the loss of experienced health workers might leave the nation vulnerable to future crises.
12 Comments
Matzomaster
This is a necessary step to ensure the long-term health of our economy. We can't continue to spend money we don't have.
Karamba
This is a disaster in the making. We're going to need these scientists when the next pandemic hits, and they won't be there.
Rotfront
This is a sign that America is finally waking up to the dangers of government overreach.
Karamba
This is a betrayal of the public trust. We need these scientists to keep us safe, not to be thrown on the unemployment line.
Rotfront
These scientists are overpaid and underworked. It's time they found jobs in the private sector where they can actually contribute to society.
KittyKat
This is a chance for the government to refocus its priorities. We need to invest in areas that will actually create jobs and grow the economy.
Loubianka
This is a short-sighted decision that will have long-term consequences. We need these scientists to protect us from future outbreaks.
Noir Black
This is a victory for the American people. We're finally getting the government we deserve.
Katchuka
This is a national tragedy. We are losing the very people who can save us from future pandemics. We must hold this administration accountable.
Eugene Alta
This is a disgrace! Cutting funding for research and firing scientists is the opposite of what we need to fight this virus.
BuggaBoom
This is a political move, plain and simple. Trump is trying to appease his base by cutting government spending, regardless of the consequences.
Eugene Alta
This is a slap in the face to the scientific community. It shows that this administration doesn't value science or the people who dedicate their lives to it.