As the Trump administration returned to office on January 20, a wave of uncertainty swept through federal institutions and the scientific community. Many researchers, particularly early-career scientists, have since expressed concern that they can no longer rely on the United States to support their work or broader scientific initiatives.
According to a recent Nature poll of 1,650 U.S.-based scientists, a sobering trend has emerged: 75% of respondents are considering leaving the country. While the Nature poll highlights an alarming statistic, it’s important to acknowledge the potential for selection bias; individuals inclined to leave may have been more likely to respond to the survey.
Regardless, significant cuts to research programs, mass firings of federal employees within and outside scientific fields, and immigration restrictions—particularly those affecting students—are fueling widespread concern. Among the most impacted are postgraduate and PhD students who have committed to careers in higher education to contribute to humanity and shape the future of American science. Now, many of these students feel abandoned.
I's likely than a few of them will go back home to communist China.
To read more, click here.