All government shutdowns disrupt science − in 2025, the consequences extend far beyond a lapse in funding

By: Kenneth M. Evans, Rice University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: November 3, 2025

Words: 1,096

Last Updated: 3 weeks, 1 day ago

By Kenneth M. Evans, Rice University

U.S. science always suffers during government shutdowns. Funding lapses send government scientists home without pay. Federal agencies suspend new grant opportunities, place expert review panels on hold, and stop collecting and analyzing critical public datasets that tell us about the economy, the environment and public health.

In 2025, the stakes are higher than in past shutdowns.

This shutdown arrives at a time of …

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