Strong Investment in U.S. Science is Essential for Discovery and Prosperity for All Americans
SCU Champions Science
[Washington, DC, March 7, 2025] – The Scientific Coalition for UAP Studies (SCU) has issued a crucial statement today:
SCU vehemently opposes the federal government’s abrupt and irrational funding freezes impacting public science and research agencies. This includes measures such as overhead caps, mass layoffs, credit card holds, communication restrictions, data removal, keyword censorship, and various forms of interference.
These agencies play a vital role in supporting our nation’s investment in scientists, research institutions, and vital programs, including those focused on Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP).
The repercussions of these impulsive actions are being felt across the U.S. research landscape. We join millions of scientists, citizens, and organizations nationwide in advocating for science.
The funding disruptions have already led to a significant decrease in graduate school admissions throughout the U.S., widespread hiring freezes at universities, cancellation of undergraduate summer programs, interruption of long-term data collection, project delays, and a halt in the submission of new research proposals. Many top researchers and early-career scientists are now exploring more stable funding prospects abroad, raising concerns about a looming “brain drain” that could jeopardize the nation’s economic growth for decades.
Federal funding for scientific research has historically led to transformative societal advancements, showcasing the impact of investing in discovery:
-
Space Exploration: NASA’s Apollo program not only achieved the monumental task of landing humans on the Moon but also spurred innovations like satellite communications, GPS, and advanced computer technology, all of which drive today’s global economy.
-
Medical Breakthroughs: Research supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has been crucial in developing life-saving vaccines, such as those for polio and influenza, along with treatments for cancer. These scientific investments have significantly enhanced American health, prosperity, and longevity.
-
Environmental Monitoring: Programs managed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), and NASA have improved forecasting of Earth’s environmental conditions, facilitating accurate predictions of severe weather and climate changes, which is essential for disaster preparedness and response. These datasets, models, and forecasts are accessible to all Americans, empowering them to confront the challenges posed by extreme environmental events.
“Without substantial funding for scientific research, we risk lagging in the technological race,” emphasized SCU Board Member Dr. Doug Buettner. “Scientific advancements drive economies, create high-paying jobs, and ensure our leading position in global progress.”
Currently, federal funding freezes affecting major research grant agencies like NIH, NSF, NASA, NOAA, USGS, and EPA persist, despite multiple court rulings mandating their restoration.
All scientific fields, including UAP studies, depend on the foundational work of researchers and the availability of the latest scientific literature, which is made possible through public funding from government agencies. UAP research, particularly involving observatories that track aerial phenomena, hinges on real-time and historical public datasets from federal entities. If access to this foundational research is compromised, Americans will face long-term consequences as the pace of discovery and innovation slows.
“History teaches us that every significant technological advancement—from aviation to the internet—began with curiosity and diligent scientific exploration,” stated Robert Powell, SCU Executive Director.
As an interdisciplinary field, the study of UAP holds the potential for groundbreaking advancements in physics, engineering, and materials science. Research that ventures into the unknown is likely to unlock new discoveries in space exploration, national defense, and advanced aeronautics—key areas that could catalyze new industries and technologies benefiting all Americans.
SCU calls on policymakers, industry leaders, and the public to safeguard American science by honoring, boosting, and stabilizing public investments in the nation’s scientific institutions. A commitment to scientific research and exploration is essential to maintain our historic legacy of discovery and prosperity.
Thank you for sharing this important announcement from the Scientific Coalition for UAP Studies (SCU). It underscores a significant concern that affects not only the scientific community but also every American who benefits from the advancements in technology, healthcare, and environmental protection that arise from government-funded research.
Robust investment in science is indeed crucial for driving innovation and addressing challenges facing our society. The disruption caused by funding freezes could lead to detrimental long-term consequences, including a “brain drain” as talented researchers seek opportunities abroad. This situation is particularly alarming given the historical context mentioned, where major technological breakthroughs have often stemmed from fundamental research funded by federal agencies.
The examples provided, from the Apollo program to medical advancements, highlight how these investments have yielded transformative benefits. As we face increasing complexities, such as climate change and public health crises, it is essential that our scientific endeavors are supported and not hindered. The call to action is clear: policymakers, industry leaders, and the public must unite to ensure stable and expanded funding for scientific research.
Science is the bedrock of progress, and protecting its future is vital for the prosperity of all Americans. Let’s advocate for the renewed commitment to support our scientific institutions so that we can continue to celebrate discovery and innovate for a better future.