Researchers across the United States say funding cuts and policy changes under the administration of Donald Trump are having a devastating impact on scientific research institutions and laboratories.

At Harvard University, professor Sean Eddy described the emotional toll after his laboratory lost federal funding, forcing many researchers to leave and bringing projects to a halt.

Eddy’s lab, once filled with more than a dozen scientists working on genomic sequencing and biological data analysis, now sits largely empty.

“Seeing these labs empty — this is not the way it’s supposed to be,” Eddy said. “This was a very vibrant lab.”

Researchers argue that recent federal actions are creating growing uncertainty throughout the scientific community, affecting hiring, long-term research planning, and collaboration across universities.

Critics say the administration is increasingly using funding decisions and grant terminations in ways that disproportionately impact academic research programs, especially in fields tied to climate science, public health, genetics, and other federally supported disciplines.

Scientists warn that reduced investment in research could weaken America’s global leadership in science and innovation while discouraging younger researchers from entering academic careers.

Many university laboratories depend heavily on federal grants to support staffing, equipment, data analysis, and international scientific partnerships. When funding disappears, entire research teams can quickly collapse.

The concerns come as debates continue in Washington over government spending priorities, higher education, and the role of federal agencies in supporting scientific advancement.

Researchers and academic leaders say the long-term consequences may extend beyond universities, potentially slowing medical discoveries, technological innovation, and scientific breakthroughs that rely on sustained public investment.