restoring scientific integrity

Political interference in science threatens our nation’s prosperity, research capacity, and leadership within the global scientific community. And without access to independent scientific information, policy makers will be unable to make informed decisions that protect our health, safety, and environment.

To stop this widespread and unprecedented abuse, UCS has consulted with former government scientists, experienced congressional staff, and other experts about reforms that should be pursued. Our suggestions are aimed at defending government science and scientists, preserving the independence of scientific advisory committees, ensuring Congress receives the best scientific advice, strengthening the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, and providing appropriate access to government research.

Restoring scientific integrity to federal policy making will require persistent and energetic engagement from scientists and citizens alike. Over the past four years, thousands of scientists and citizens have come together to condemn political interference in science and call for change. Roundtables conducted on college campuses have drawn thousands of students, academics, and community members. Now as we work to implement broad reforms, we call upon the president and Congress to create conditions conducive to a thriving scientific enterprise that will serve our democracy with integrity and bring the full fruits of science to all Americans and to the world.

A number of scientific societies have also addressed the issue, and the National Academy of Sciences has condemned the use of political litmus tests and agreed with the need to strengthen the Office of Science and Technology Policy. We have also succeeded in getting landmark scientific integrity legislation introduced in both houses of Congress.

Find out more information about how you can help us restore scientific integrity to federal policy making.