The Asian American Scholar Forum (AASF) joins leading scientists, engineers, medical experts, and research advocates in signing Stand Up For Science’s Open Letter to Congress expressing deep concern over the abrupt dismissal of all 22 members of the National Science Board.
Created by Congress more than 75 years ago alongside the founding of the National Science Foundation, the National Science Board plays a critical role in overseeing the NSF, shaping national science strategy, and providing independent, apolitical scientific guidance to Congress and the President. The dismissal of the entire board comes during a period of significant instability for the NSF, including the absence of a permanent director, major staffing reductions, relocation from its dedicated headquarters, and proposed funding cuts exceeding 50 percent.
The letter warns that these actions threaten the nation’s ability to maintain leadership in basic and applied research at a time of intense global competition in science and technology. Signatories also express concern about the erosion of independent scientific expertise and oversight across the research, healthcare, and technology sectors, which are vital to the nation’s economic strength and national security.
AASF is proud to stand alongside scholars, scientists, and researchers, scientists, and researchers, members of the National Academies, Nobel laureates, and leaders across the scientific and medical communities in calling on Congress to act swiftly to protect the nation’s scientific infrastructure and restore qualified, independent scientific leadership.
“The dismissal of the National Science Board weakens the independent scientific leadership and expert guidance that have long helped drive America’s research strength, economic competitiveness, and national security,” said Asian American Scholar Forum Executive Director Gisela Perez Kusakawa. “At a time of intense global competition in science and technology, the United States must protect the institutions, scholars, scientists, researchers, and scientific expertise that power innovation and keep our nation globally competitive.”
AASF remains committed to advancing policies that strengthen U.S. scientific leadership; support scholars, scientists, and researchers; and protect the research ecosystem that powers American innovation and competitiveness.