The following is a statement from Association of American Universities President Barbara R. Snyder expressing concern about reports that President Trump has dismissed all members of the National Science Board.
I am deeply troubled by the administration’s reported decision to dismiss all members of the National Science Board, particularly given the fact that the National Science Foundation has been without a director for more than a year. The NSB -- composed of many of the nation’s leading scientists and engineers from academia and industry -- plays a critical role in setting NSF’s strategic direction, approving major research priorities and providing independent advice to the president and Congress on the health of the United States’ research and innovation enterprise.
Without a board or a confirmed director, the foundation is rudderless at the very time when clear direction and strategic oversight for the NSF are essential to maintaining America’s global scientific leadership. At a time when China is investing heavily in science and has matched or surpassed the United States in several key fields, dismantling the NSB’s independent voice sends exactly the wrong signal. It risks undermining the research, workforce development, and scientific leadership essential to U.S. competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.
Founded in 1900, the Association of American Universities is composed of America’s leading research universities. AAU’s 71 research universities transform lives through education, research, and innovation.
Our member universities earn the majority of competitively awarded federal funding for research that improves public health, seeks to address national challenges, and contributes significantly to our economic strength, while educating and training tomorrow’s visionary leaders and innovators.
AAU member universities collectively help shape policy for higher education, science, and innovation; promote best practices in undergraduate and graduate education; and strengthen the contributions of leading research universities to American society.