Trump has terminated several members of the independent National Science Board

Source: Engadget

Background

The Trump administration dismissed members of the National Science Board (NSB), which is responsible for establishing policies for the National Science Foundation (NSF). Screenshots shared with The Washington Post show board members receiving a message that their position was “terminated, effective immediately.”

The NSB sets policies for the NSF, the independent U.S. agency that allocates about 25 % of federal research funding to colleges and universities. The foundation, in operation for over 75 years, has contributed to breakthroughs such as MRI technology and cellphones. Up to 25 active members can serve on the NSB; the current board has 22 members. NSF’s former director, Sethuraman Panchanathan, abruptly resigned last year.

Reactions

Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren called the decision “a real bozo‑the‑clown move” in a statement:

“This is the latest stupid move made by a president who continues to harm science and American innovation. It unfortunately is no surprise a president who has attacked NSF from day one would seek to destroy the board that helps guide the Foundation.”

Lofgren, the Ranking Member of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee, emphasized the broader impact on U.S. innovation.

Uncertainty About the Upcoming Meeting

It is unclear whether the NSB’s scheduled board meeting for May 5 will take place. When asked about the terminations and the upcoming meeting, the NSB referred inquiries to the White House for additional details.