Washington : In a major administrative development, the Trump administration has dismissed all members of the National Science Board (NSB) with immediate effect. The NSB is an independent advisory body that oversees policies and funding decisions of the National Science Foundation (NSF).
According to sources, members of the board were informed of the termination of their tenure via email. However, no clear explanation was provided for the decision. The move has triggered concern among scientists, policymakers, and academic experts across the United States.
The National Science Board consists of leading scientists, engineers, and academic experts who advise the government on key issues related to science and technology policy. Established in 1950, the board was designed to ensure that scientific decision-making remains independent of political influence.
Following the mass dismissal, members of the scientific community have expressed apprehension over the potential impact on research autonomy and institutional independence in the United States.
Opposition leaders and several scientific organizations have criticized the decision, warning that it could undermine long-term scientific progress and weaken the country’s innovation ecosystem.
Attention is now focused on how the administration plans to restructure the board and whether its role and functioning will undergo significant changes in the coming period.