Dear Member,

As details about the FY26 budget and funding for federal agencies continue to emerge, the proposed cuts to science remain deeply concerning. But this isn’t the end of our story. Congress can still act to ensure sustained investments in federal research and development.

In the weeks ahead, AAAS will share timely tools and resources to help you speak up for science, and clear actions we can each take. It starts with our webinar on Monday, June 16 at 2 p.m. ET. We will walk through the federal budget process, what’s at stake, and how you might effectively share your personal story with your federal policymakers in your district during the August congressional recess. This will complement AAAS’ work in and around the country.

This comes as many of you are facing real challenges where you live and work. But you’re not alone. Over the past few months, I’ve had the chance to connect with members of our community — hearing your concerns in virtual meetings and lab visits across the country, from Pennsylvania and California to Kansas, Missouri, North Carolina, Tennessee, and New Jersey.

In every place, I’ve met scientists and engineers who are justifiably worried about the future, but still deeply committed to what science can achieve. They’re working hard to serve their communities, our country, and the world. I’m especially thinking about the undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral researchers I’ve met who have told me they’re unsure if they should continue their studies or look elsewhere. I want you to know that your work matters, and we’re in this with you.

AAAS is striving to maintain a strong and resilient U.S. STEMM ecosystem, which includes bolstering collaborations with institutions of higher education and corporate partners. In recognition of this need —  and inspired by our partnership with Arizona State University —  AAAS recently launched an Institutional Membership program to enhance these bonds. The University of Mississippi and The George Washington University are the first institutions to participate. These institutions can now offer their students, faculty and staff free AAAS Elemental Memberships, which come with benefits such as exclusive science policy insights, career-enhancing resources, and networking and engagement opportunities. We’re proud to count these two important institutions among our founding Institutional Members.

We also took a moment to celebrate a basic research breakthrough that led to an innovative treatment that will have an outsized impact on humanity. Yesterday, we hosted the AAAS Mani L. Bhaumik Breakthrough of the Year Award Ceremony to award three individuals for their pioneering research and activities that were instrumental in the development of lenacapavir, a long-acting HIV prevention drug. Their collaboration offers new hope in the global fight against HIV, with the potential to transform care for millions. May science and discovery continue to help us reach our greatest aspirations.


Sudip S. Parikh, Ph.D. 
Chief Executive Officer, AAAS  
Executive Publisher, Science Journals

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