As a junior at Brookline High School in Massachusetts, I am deeply concerned about the recent funding cuts from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Science Foundation (NSF). These reductions threaten groundbreaking research, economic growth, and educational opportunities in Massachusetts and beyond.

Slashing NIH’s indirect costs to 15% will drastically reduce support for research scholarships, computational resources, and lab equipment—essential components of biomedical innovation. During recent college visits, I was inspired by the advanced STEM research opportunities at leading universities. However, these funding cuts will limit access to such programs for millions of students passionate about science and technology.

Beyond research, reduced federal funding will force universities to scale back course offerings, cut programs, and lay off faculty and research staff. These financial constraints will have ripple effects beyond STEM, weakening the overall quality of education, including arts and humanities programs. Growing up in a multilingual family that values both science and the arts, I have experienced firsthand how a well-rounded education fosters curiosity, knowledge, and resilience. Funding cuts will deprive future generations of these critical interdisciplinary learning opportunities.

Massachusetts has long been a global leader in medical and scientific innovation, from polio treatments to COVID-19 breakthroughs. As someone raised in Brookline, surrounded by top-tier research institutions, I have seen the vital role biomedical research plays in improving lives. Cutting funding disrupts the collaboration between academia, industry, and government, jeopardizing Massachusetts’ status as a global biomedical hub.

Additionally, these cuts will hinder America’s ability to attract top global talent and maintain leadership in biomedical research. Massachusetts’ world-class institutions drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. The United States has long been a magnet for the brightest minds in science, but reducing support for this ecosystem will weaken our global competitiveness and leadership in scientific advancement.

While cutting $4 billion from NIH and $5 billion from NSF annually may offer short-term budget relief, the long-term consequences will be devastating—undermining our scientific workforce, technological progress, and economic strength. A strong investment in research and education is not an expense but a necessity for America’s future. I urge you to reconsider these reductions and support sustained funding for science and biomedical research to ensure continued innovation, economic prosperity, and educational excellence.

Sincerely,

William Xuan
Brookline High School, Class of 2026
Massachusetts, The United States