Postscripts: Follow-ups from a year of research cuts
In 2025, STAT conducted interviews with various individuals whose lives were impacted by the Trump administration’s budget cuts, grant terminations, and layoffs. These included a young researcher worried about job prospects, a cancer patient facing treatment delays, a veteran losing her position at the FDA, and an epidemiologist tracking NIH grant terminations. Recently, STAT caught up with these individuals to learn about their experiences since the initial interviews.
Karen Hollitt, a veteran who lost her job at the FDA, struggled with PTSD symptoms as she faced unemployment. Eventually, she found a new job as a trainer at a credit union, though with a significant pay cut. Despite the challenges, she feels fortunate compared to her former colleagues who remain unemployed.
Scott Delaney, an epidemiologist at Harvard, left his job after grant terminations to focus on Grant Witness, a database tracking canceled NIH grants. He secured private funding to continue the project and started a consulting business to address health disparities related to the environment.
Brooke Kajdy, a cancer patient, initially received experimental treatment for her lymphoma but faced delays due to administrative issues. Despite initial optimism, her cancer progressed, and she passed away in September 2025. Her husband praised her strength and optimism until the end.
Andrew Read, a university administrator at Penn State, expressed frustration with the uncertainty surrounding federal cuts and research funding. While NIH funding at Penn State increased, ongoing threats of cuts have led to challenges in research administration and investments.
Josh Fessel, a former NIH physician, left his job in protest over grant terminations and layoffs. He struggles to find a satisfying job in the current market but remains committed to advocating for science and public health.
Sam Degregori, a postdoc whose grant program was terminated, persevered by securing a fellowship and continuing his research. Despite challenges in the job market, he finds renewed energy in his work and remains committed to pursuing a career in academia.
These stories highlight the personal and professional challenges faced by individuals in the scientific community due to government policies and funding cuts. Their resilience and determination to continue their work underscore the importance of supporting scientific research and innovation.
