Budget cuts prompt scientists to contemplate leaving the US

Salon : According to a survey sponsored by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, a growing number of scientists say they are having difficulty securing federal funds for their research. The survey included some 3700 respondents, from nearly all the STEM fields, including biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics. Most said that despite spending more time writing grant applications, they are receiving less money. One reason is that over the past 10 years, federal funding has failed to keep up with inflation. And federal agencies have suffered additional funding cuts of $9.3 billion due to the 2013 sequestration. Nevertheless, nearly 95% of the participants said they want to continue to pursue careers as scientists; they cite the vast benefits of continued support for scientific research and the importance of encouraging the next generation of scientists. Although most respondents wanted to maintain the US’s position as a world leader in scientific innovation and discovery, 18% said they were contemplating continuing their careers abroad.