E25 – Science Under Threat: NIH Funding Cuts and the Future of Research

In this special episode of BrainSTEM, Dr. Hilary Marusak is joined by Dr. Alaina Jaster, host of Psychedelic Brain Science, a science advocate, and a postdoctoral research fellow in the THINK lab. They are also joined by Dr. Christine Rabinak, a world-leading PTSD researcher, who brings a unique perspective on the impact of recent federal funding cuts—not just on scientific innovation, but also on patients whose lives depend on this research.

The conversation centers on the Trump administration’s executive actions affecting NIH indirect costs and broader federal science funding freezes. These cuts threaten groundbreaking research, training the next generation of scientists, and the economic and public health benefits of biomedical innovation. Beyond the numbers, they also affect real people—patients with PTSD, cancer, and other life-threatening conditions who rely on scientific progress for hope and treatment.

Scientists across the country are facing uncertainty, and the lack of clear information has created widespread concern. But there are ways to take action. In this episode, we highlight concrete steps researchers, advocates, and the public can take to push back against these harmful policies and fight for the future of science.

🔗 Topics Covered:

• How recent NIH funding cuts and freezes impact research, jobs, and innovation

• The ripple effects on early-career scientists and the next generation of researchers

• The role of science in shaping policy—and how policy shapes science

• Firsthand perspectives from both researchers and patients affected by these decisions

• Actionable steps for advocacy and protecting scientific funding

📢 Take Action:

• Contact your representatives via phone or email: Find your elected officials

• Make 5 calls in 5 minutes to advocate for NIH and NSF funding: 5 Calls

• Use email templates and fact sheets for advocacy: SSDP Action Alert

• Sign petitions and stay informed through professional societies: Society for Neuroscience Petition

• Join activist groups and find more resources:

• Indivisible – Fighting against the constitutional crisis

• The People’s Union – Economic boycotts and protest organizing

• Stand Up for Science – Grassroots science advocacy

🧠 BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak. Production by Amanpreet Bhogal, Manmeet Bhogal, and Gabby Maramag. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the Society for Neuroscience and Michigan Society for Neuroscience.

🎙️ Subscribe, share, and follow us! Submit your questions for future episodes on Instagram @brainstempodcast. Visit our website: www.BrainSTEMpodcast.com.

📺 Video podcasts available on YouTube: BrainSTEM YouTube Channel

❤️‍🩹 Help is available 24/7 at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.