The American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) is deeply troubled by the recent layoffs at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H), National Science Foundation (NSF) and other agencies. These abrupt and unilateral decisions have far-reaching consequences that extend beyond the immediate loss of jobs. The impact on scientific progress and innovation is profound and alarming.
These actions do little to streamline the federal government; the loss of experienced researchers, grant managers/reviewers and support staff will create a void that cannot be easily filled. The expertise and institutional knowledge that these individuals possess are invaluable assets to the scientific community. Their absence will slow down the momentum of research initiatives to develop critical life-saving diagnostics and treatments and diminish the capacity for these Federal agencies to conduct cutting edge research, grant review and maintain databases.
While we recognize that there is always the opportunity to evaluate and evolve agency operations, wholesale reduction of the workforce without input from program directors and without consideration of the impact on research, innovation, and overall administration is detrimental to our nation’s global science leadership and weakens the entire research enterprise and the health of our country.
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About the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG)
Founded in 1948, the American Society of Human Genetics is the primary professional membership organization for human genetics specialists worldwide. Its community of nearly 8,000 members include researchers, academicians, clinicians, laboratory practice professionals, genetic counselors, nurses, and others with an interest in human genetics. The Society serves scientists, health professionals, and the public by providing forums to: (1) share research results through the ASHG Annual Meeting and in The American Journal of Human Genetics and Human Genetics and Genomics Advances; (2) advance genetic research by advocating for research support; (3) educate current and future genetics professionals, health care providers, advocates, policymakers, educators, students, and the public about all aspects of human genetics; and (4) promote genetic services and support responsible social and scientific policies. For more information, visit: http://www.ashg.org.
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