Many of us have seen the heartbreaking impact of recent federal budget cuts to medical research, including critical work in cancer research. While it's essential to urge our current elected officials to reverse these decisions and to vote out those who enabled them, we should also explore proactive solutions at the state and institutional levels.
One idea: States and Universities could establish dedicated Centers or Departments to hire researchers laid off due to federal cutbacks, allowing them to continue their important work, at least to some extent. Funding could come from state budgets or private donations. I've contacted governors and university presidents to advocate for this approach, but have yet to receive a response.
There’s also a role for the private sector. Companies can help support researchers directly, enabling them to continue their work through flexible affiliations. My company, PathologyOutlines.com, is ready to contribute - are you or your business interested in doing the same?
If this idea resonates with you, I’d love your support. Do you have suggestions for contacts, organizations or platforms that could help spread or promote this initiative?
Complaining is not enough. We can help solve this problem, but we must get to work!
Note: this recent article describes how a group of scientists continued after their funding was cut, a process that others can follow.
The index to my prior essays (mostly post 5 November 2024) is here.
I have another blog on Cancer and Medicine.
You can also follow me at https://www.linkedin.com/in/nat-pernick-8967765/ (LinkedIn), npernickmich (Threads and Instagram) and natpernick.bsky.social (Bluesky).
Email me at Nat@PathologyOutlines.com.
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