An open letter from Manitoba researchers, now backed by over 750 scientists and academics nationwide, warns of the consequences U.S. research cuts pose to Canada. The letter calls on federal leaders to invest heavily in domestic research, seizing a rare chance to position Canada as a global scientific leader.
It highlights the collapse of U.S. research infrastructure in fields like vaccine development, climate science, and public health under recent political shifts. These developments have disrupted collaborations and halted grant funding, creating a ripple effect impacting Canadian researchers.
Julie Lajoie of the University of Manitoba emphasized the urgency: “We can’t rely on our neighbour anymore. We need to take our place.” She stressed that without stronger government support, Canada risks falling behind.
Fellow researcher Paul Marcogliese added that maintaining current funding levels would mean a “degradation of our science,” citing stalled projects and lost partnerships due to the U.S. pullback.
To attract displaced U.S. scientists and bolster local innovation, the letter demands a significant funding boost — including raising science and tech spending to 1.25% of GDP and doubling investments in the tri-council funding agencies. It also calls for removing caps on international students and launching a research accelerator fund.
U.S.-based Canadian scientist Zen Faulkes said recent changes in America have been “catastrophic for science,” and hinted at returning to Canada — if support systems improve.
The Liberals said more funding details would come with their platform. Conservatives and the NDP have yet to comment.
Source: Swifteradio.com
