President Trump’s administration has significantly reshaped the landscape of U.S. science funding and research in 2025, marked by major organizational changes and budget reductions. These moves, overseen by the Office of Management and Budget director, are already impacting key climate research centers, prompting questions about the future of scientific priorities in the country.
Climate Research Under Review
A key shift this year has been the dismantling of at least one major climate research facility, signaling a broader realignment of federal science spending. This decision comes as part of a wider trend toward prioritizing certain scientific disciplines over others, raising concerns among researchers about long-term funding stability and the direction of environmental studies.
Nuclear Waste Disposal: Finland Leads the Way
While domestic science policy undergoes transformation, other nations are advancing in critical areas. Finland has become the first country globally to commission a permanent nuclear waste disposal facility, offering a model for long-term radioactive material storage. The UK is closely studying Finland’s approach, highlighting the international relevance of these developments.
Legacy of Dian Fossey: 40 Years After Her Murder
Forty years after her death, Dian Fossey’s groundbreaking work on mountain gorillas continues to shape primate behavior research. Her meticulous data collection, despite the tragic circumstances surrounding her murder in Rwanda, remains a cornerstone for comparative cognition studies at institutions like the University of Sussex.
Implications for Science in 2025
The combination of domestic policy shifts and international advancements paints a complex picture for science in 2025. The U.S. is redefining its priorities, while other nations forge ahead in areas like nuclear waste management. Fossey’s legacy underscores the enduring value of field research, even in the face of political or logistical challenges.
Conclusion: These developments signal a period of flux for science, with U.S. policy changes and global leadership in waste disposal offering both opportunities and challenges for the field. The enduring relevance of historical data, such as Fossey’s, reinforces the importance of long-term, rigorous scientific inquiry.
