'My career is over': Columbia University scientists hit hard by Trump team's cut

Columbia University scientists are facing significant setbacks due to the Trump administration's decision to cut $400 million in federal research grants, a move linked to pro-Palestinian protests on campus. The announcement, made on March 7, has led to the termination of over $250 million in funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), affecting numerous PhD students and postdoctoral researchers. Many of those impacted, like PhD student Daniella Fodera, expressed feelings of trauma and uncertainty about their futures in academia. The cuts are reportedly a response to claims of insufficient action by the university regarding the safety of Jewish students amid ongoing protests related to the Israel-Palestine conflict. Columbia's administration is currently reviewing the termination notices and has pledged to work towards restoring federal funding. The situation has raised concerns about the broader implications for scientific research and public health initiatives, particularly in areas like maternal health, which are critical to addressing pressing societal issues. The NIH's actions are part of a larger trend of funding cuts affecting universities nationwide, prompting fears of a decline in research capabilities and academic opportunities.

- Columbia University scientists are losing $400 million in federal research grants due to Trump administration cuts.

- The funding cuts are linked to pro-Palestinian protests and claims of inadequate university responses to student safety.

- Over $250 million in NIH funding has been terminated, affecting many early-career researchers.

- The university is reviewing grant terminations and aims to restore funding.

- The cuts could have significant impacts on public health research and academic careers.