For many of us, a new year often begins with reflection on the past year’s accomplishments and shortcomings, as well as planning for the year ahead. As we look ahead to 2026, we must critically examine one of the largest challenges faced by women in science last year- the longest government shutdown in American history. Lasting 43 days, the shutdown caused significant delays in scientific research.
The government shutdown resulted in federal employees, who usually review grant proposals at organizations like the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation, being furloughed. As a result, they were unable to accept or create funding awards, which are critical steps in the groundbreaking work that drives scientific progress in our country. This led to delays and uncertainties for researchers, hindering scientific progress and innovation.
On top of new funding awards, the government shutdown also made it difficult for institutions and investigators to get administrative support on their active grants from federal employees during this time. The Trump administration laid off federal workers and made cuts to federal agencies during the shutdown. Government scientists were furloughed without pay, and national labs were forced to stop collecting and analyzing data. Some research projects were halted altogether. Expert review panels at federal science agencies were inactivated, which pauses the evaluation of critical datasets, such as ones examining the economy, public health, and the environment.
Two women in science (anonymously) shared their personal struggles with us during the shutdown. One graduate student noted that her NIH Predoctoral F31 grant submitted back in April was held up by the cancellation of funding discussions (which typically occur during the fall), despite receiving a great score. She was unable to contact her program officer for any further information, and as of today, she has still not been notified of a decision. Another is searching for postdoctoral positions which have significantly decreased due to funding cuts and economic uncertainty.
Institutions have also been devastated by the pause on federal funding. Universities rely on funding in excess of $30 billion for research programs, supplies, and personnel, while also contributing to the salaries of janitorial staff, front office staff, and others essential to the research process. In an already strained financial environment, this leaves many universities reevaluating how to pay necessary personnel.
The shutdown has slowed scientific research, putting us behind other countries. Halted clinical trials and interrupted longitudinal studies will have long term impacts. Layoffs are impacting morale and personal finances of federal workers, students, and professionals. The losses of institutional knowledge from employees who leave STEM (or leave the country) will continue to grow – causing damage to local and national economies and even more uncertainty.
Recent proposals by the administration regarding federal grants, student immigration, etc., demonstrate that U.S. policymakers continue to remain divided and cannot work to reach critical compromises. The shutdown has also weakened the integrity of American higher education and science.
Although the shutdown left gaps in government data that backlogged administrative and research work, we are pushing to get back to normal operations. It is a long road, but scientists often rise to challenging circumstances with grace, rigor and persistence.
The 2025 government shutdown will not be the last, but together we can continue to advocate for interrupted government funding and endure the challenges it creates. Below are resources to help us in that process:
Tracking the state of government shutdowns:
Supporting research during a shutdown:
- Find your representatives and contact them. Share how the shutdown affects your work and urge them to restore funding.
- Share sources of unusual funding you may come across to colleagues in need.
- Many universities or research organizations offer ‘emergency bridge grants’ to donate to and/or advocacy campaigns that you can join.
Bailey McLagan, Megan Pohlmann, RN, MSN, CPN, and Sydney Woods are members of the AWIS Advocacy Committee and would like to thank their fellow committee members who helped provide research for this article. The AWIS Advocacy Committee works to ensure that all women in science and STEM related fields can achieve their full potential. Our advocacy work focuses on achieving positive system transformation, equitable workplaces, and recognition of women’s scientific and leadership achievements.