Trump Administration Terminates Entire National Science Board

Mintesinot Niggusie

The administration of President Donald Trump has terminated all members of the National Science Board, according to two dismissed board members who told Reuters they were informed of the decision on Friday.

The board, which has more than 20 members serving six-year terms, was established in 1950 to oversee the governance of the National Science Foundation and advise the president and Congress on science and engineering policy.

Board members Yolanda Gil and Keivan Stassun said in emailed statements on Monday that all 22 current members were removed effective immediately, with no explanation provided.

“Yes, all 22 current members of the National Science Board were terminated on Friday effective immediately. No reason was given,” Gil said. She is affiliated with the Information Sciences Institute at the University of Southern California.

Stassun, a professor at Vanderbilt University, confirmed the account and said the termination notice offered no justification. He described the decision as disappointing and said it reflected broader developments affecting federal scientific institutions.

“Seeing similar actions by the Administration across the federal government and especially with regards to scientific research, it seemed only a matter of time,” he said.

The National Science Board includes academics as well as representatives from national laboratories, non-profits and industry, according to Gil.

The National Science Foundation directed inquiries to the White House.

A White House official said the authorities granted to the board when it was created by Congress may require updating, adding that the National Science Foundation’s work “continues uninterrupted.”