The 1945 report “Science: The Endless Frontier,” written by Vannevar Bush at President Truman’s request, established a tradition of U.S. government investment in basic research. This funding has led to advancements across numerous fields, including nuclear energy, medical technologies, and artificial intelligence. Generations of students trained in fundamental research have gained the skills necessary to advance technology.
However, current funding for basic science and education in the U.S. is facing significant challenges. The White House’s proposed federal budget includes cuts to the Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation, although Congress might alter these recommendations. The National Institutes of Health has reportedly paused over $1.9 billion in grants, and programs supporting STEM education from the NSF have faced terminations amounting to more than $700 million.
These funding reductions have prompted several universities to limit graduate student admissions, cancel internships, and reduce summer research opportunities, thus making it more challenging for young individuals to enter scientific and engineering fields. In a climate focused on immediate results, justifying investments in research with long-term applications may be complicated, yet such efforts are essential for future technological development.
John McCarthy, who coined the term “artificial intelligence” in the 1950s while at MIT, is exemplified as a pioneer in AI research. Despite its initial slow growth during past “AI winters,” the field has benefited from dedicated researchers. The introduction of neural networks, especially by figures like Geoffrey Hinton and John Hopfield, laid the foundation for contemporary deep learning.
The rise of neural networks has also been supported by advancements in graphics processing units (GPUs), which are crucial for AI applications. These chips are a product of extensive research in materials science, leading to innovations in transistor design.
As research continues, the future of technology may rely on new materials and methods yet to be discovered. Continued support for fundamental research is vital for nurturing such innovations.
Source: https://www.technologyreview.com/2025/09/08/1123214/opinion-basic-science-research-funding/