Chemistry Seminar with Dr. Eric Isaacs from the Research Corporation for Science Advancement at 10:00am

Seminar title: The Changing Nature of US Science and Science Philanthropy

The U.S. scientific research enterprise is facing an historic convergence of opportunities and threats caused by the rapid advancement of AI, the volatility in federal funding, and erosion of public trust in the scientific expertise. The initial consequences of these disruptions are real and severe: constricted research agendas, unstable prospects for early-career scientists, weakened international collaboration, and a growing disconnect between knowledge production and societal needs. At this moment, science-focused foundations can play a critical role in responding to—and potentially reshaping—the dynamics of the research ecosystem. Private, independent foundations are uniquely positioned to provide leadership by supporting
novel research directions, exploring experimental funding models, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and making early investments in scientific capacity building – including adoption of AI-based technologies. Examples of the potential impacts of judicious private foundation investment in high-risk, high-impact science can be seen across disciplines, from
astronomy, quantum science and molecular biology to biomedical research and environmental science.