Science Impact
Scientists’ Opinions on Science Policy, Public Trust and Competitiveness
Section 3
Survey Overview and Demographics
General Overview
Study Date: 20.11.25–12.01.26
Geographic Coverage: United States
Expertise:
- 39.5% Biology
- 15.1% Civil and Environmental Engineering
- 7.4% Geography
- 21.5% Public Health
- 9.5% Chemistry
- 6.9% Computer and Information Science and Engineering
Response Overview
Sample Size: 1352
Valid Responses: 265
Response Rate: 21
Date initial findings posted: 02.25.26
Most recent update: 02.25.26
Days survey in field: 53
Survey Demographics
Respondent Demographics:
- 42.7% Female
- 57.1% Male
- 100% Academic
- 0% Industry
Language(s): English
Section Overview
In this section, we asked scientists how recent federal changes and administrative actions since January 2025 may have affected the academic research environment in the United States.
Questions
Findings:
- Three-quarters (75%) of scientists reported their belief that the current administration in Washington has influenced science research priorities “Much more than prior administrations.”
- Most scientists (85%) reported they considered the changes in U.S. science policy since January 2025 to be “very negative.”
- Most scientists reported that changes to U.S science policies since January 2025 have decreased the public’s trust of science either a lot (56%) or somewhat (28%).
Question
Findings:
A large majority of scientists reported that changes in U.S. science policy have had “very” or “somewhat” negative effects in areas of competitiveness, recruitment & workforce, and overall science enterprise.
For example, two-thirds or more reported “very” negative effects on U.S. scientific leadership (68%) and global competitiveness of U.S. science (66%).
A majority also reported “very” negative effects of policy on scientists’ ability to pursue critical knowledge gaps (62%), attractiveness of science as a career path for young people (60%), and contributions of science to national welfare (60%).
