Open letter to federal leaders from Manitoba researchers gets support from hundreds of Canadian academics

An urgent plea from a group of Manitoba researchers has resonated with hundreds of scientists and academics nationwide, highlighting the repercussions of research cutbacks in the United States on Canadian research initiatives and calling on federal political leaders to intervene.

The open letter, which was circulated last Friday and has garnered over 750 signatures as of Tuesday afternoon, underscores the critical juncture facing global science. It emphasizes the significant impact of the diminishing research infrastructure in the U.S., historically a frontrunner in scientific investment, creating a void in international innovation.

Julie Lajoie, an assistant professor at the University of Manitoba and one of the authors of the letter, emphasized the unique opportunity for Canada to step up and address the research deficit left by the U.S. She stressed the need for the Canadian government to prioritize science and research, stating that the country must seize the moment to assert its position on the global research stage.

The letter outlines the detrimental effects of layoffs and program slashes under the current U.S. administration, particularly in critical areas such as pathogen surveillance, climate resilience, vaccine development, and cancer research. It warns that these actions jeopardize not only the scientific and public health security of the U.S. but also of countries worldwide that rely on American leadership and collaboration.

Paul Marcogliese, an assistant professor at the University of Manitoba and a signatory of the letter, emphasized the interconnectedness of Canadian research with U.S. funding and collaborations, highlighting the potential spillover effect of dwindling research funding in Canada. He stressed that maintaining the status quo would lead to a degradation of Canadian science and hinder the country’s progress in the long run.

The letter also underscores the need for a substantial investment in Canadian research to capitalize on the current opportunity presented by the U.S. research climate. It calls for increased funding to attract American scientists and foster collaborations, emphasizing the importance of providing adequate resources for research endeavors in Canada.

Calls for funding increases include raising spending on science and technology to 1.25% of Canada’s GDP, doubling funding for tri-council agencies responsible for research funding, establishing a research accelerator fund to incentivize investments, and removing caps on international student enrollment. The letter argues that research should be viewed as a strategic catalyst for Canada’s long-term prosperity, citing the significant economic and societal benefits of research and development investments.

While the Liberal party has indicated plans to address research funding in its platform, the Conservatives and NDP have not responded to requests for comment. The urgency of the situation underscores the need for immediate action to bolster Canadian research and innovation in the face of global challenges.