Trump admin cuts $4M in Princeton funding related to climate research
The Department of Commerce made a significant announcement on Tuesday, revealing their decision to slash $4 million in funding for climate research at Princeton University. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick explained that this move came after a comprehensive review of the Department’s financial assistance programs in alignment with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) current objectives.
Lutnick emphasized that these budget cuts were essential for streamlining the Federal Government’s expenses and reducing its overall size, in accordance with President Trump’s administration commitments. Princeton University, a recipient of $455 million in federal funding during fiscal year 2024, will see the termination of these funds effective June 30.
The Department clarified that the funding previously allocated to Princeton through NOAA, including the Cooperative Institute for Modeling the Earth System (CIMES), no longer aligns with NOAA’s program goals or the priorities of the current administration. Princeton has not yet responded to requests for comment on the matter.
The CIMES program, known for its contributions to oceanic and atmospheric modeling, climate research, and the education of postdoctoral researchers and graduate students, was deemed to promote exaggerated climate threats leading to ‘climate anxiety’ among American youth by the commerce department.
Additionally, agreements like the Climate Risks and Interactive Sub-seasonal to Seasonal Predictability and the Advancing Prediction were criticized for their focus on extreme climate change impacts, such as fluctuating water availability and sea-level rise. The Department stressed that terminating these funds would save taxpayer money and prevent wasteful spending.
In light of the Trump administration’s investigations into alleged antisemitic discrimination at colleges and universities, federal funds have been cut for schools that permitted anti-Israel protests following the 2023 attack on Israel. This move has put academic institutions on edge, with ongoing reviews of cooperative agreements and grant awards to avoid inefficient use of government resources.
As colleges and universities navigate these changes, it remains crucial for academic institutions to align their research priorities with federal objectives to secure continued financial support. The Department of Commerce’s decision underscores the importance of responsible allocation of funds in advancing scientific research and addressing pressing environmental challenges.
