On April 25, 2026, President Donald Trump dismissed all 24 members of the National Science Board (NSB), the governing body responsible for overseeing the National Science Foundation (NSF). Established in 1950, the NSB plays a critical role in guiding U.S. science policy and overseeing NSF operations, which include managing Antarctic research stations, telescopes, research vessels, and funding fundamental scientific research across the nation. The board’s members, typically leading academics and industry figures, serve six-year terms, with a portion appointed every two years. One board member, astrophysicist Keivan Stassun, noted that the firing appears linked to the board's previous criticism of Trump's proposed 55% budget cut to NSF, which Congress ultimately rejected. The White House has not provided an official explanation for the mass termination. Critics emphasize that government-funded basic research has been a cornerstone of U.S. scientific advancement, leading to technologies such as MRIs, cellphones, and LASIK surgery. While private industry can commercialize research findings, it rarely funds the primary research that drives breakthroughs. This action raises concerns about the future direction of NSF oversight and the administration's approach to scientific policy and governance.

President’s assault on science –particularly climate science – has led to unprecedented funding cuts and staff layoffs “Our ability to respond to climate change, the biggest existential threat...