Anne Simon, a University of Maryland professor and founder of Silvec Biologics, is facing delays in USDA grant funding to study treatments for citrus greening disease. The grant, intended for a field trial of a potential cure, has been on hold due to changes in federal workforce under President Trump’s administration. Simon emphasized the urgency of finding a solution as the disease has killed 95% of Florida’s citrus trees and is affecting trees in California and Texas. With obstacles to the trial, Simon is concerned about retaining staff and losing progress in research. She also highlighted the impact on graduate education as research grants fund students. Simon’s experience reflects broader challenges facing scientific research due to political influences on funding. Despite seeking alternative funding solutions and hoping for support from universities, the future of scientific research and education remains uncertain. By speaking out at a recent rally, Simon sheds light on the critical need to support scientific endeavors and the potential consequences of funding delays on future scientific progress.
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