Harvard scientists say research could be set back years after funding freeze

Main Idea: Harvard University researchers say a Trump administration funding freeze could halt major medical and science projects for years, including Alberto Ascherio’s work on multiple sclerosis and other diseases.

Key Points:

• Harvard lost about $2.6 billion in federal funding after rejecting government demands tied to its handling of antisemitism and campus policies.
• Ascherio says his research is stalled because $7 million in funding was cut, putting blood-sample studies and years of work at risk.
• Other Harvard scientists say canceled grants are forcing layoffs, lab shutdowns, and delays in research on cancer, addiction, mental health, and dementia.
• Harvard is suing the Trump administration, while the White House says the grants were already under review and the cuts were not retaliation.