Scientists around the country are bracing themselves for a major shift in US biomedical research following the confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the new Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. Kennedy, known for promoting vaccine misinformation and public-health conspiracies, now oversees a vast portfolio of science policy, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration, and the National Institutes of Health.
Kennedy’s confirmation has sparked concern among the scientific community, with many questioning the future of research under his leadership. While Kennedy has expressed support for certain fields of biomedical research, such as chronic diseases, he has also indicated a desire to take a break from infectious-disease research. This stance has raised red flags among researchers who emphasize the interconnectedness of various areas of study.
Some experts argue that cutting funding for infectious-disease research in favor of chronic diseases creates a false dichotomy, as many chronic conditions have been linked to underlying infectious diseases. For example, infections such as human papillomavirus (HPV) have been shown to cause certain types of cancer, highlighting the intricate relationship between infectious and chronic illnesses.
Kennedy has also emphasized the need for further research into diet and nutrition, as well as the links between environmental pollution and human health. While these areas of study are important, experts caution that policy decisions must be grounded in sound science to avoid unintended consequences.
Despite Kennedy’s stated priorities, the future of biomedical research funding remains uncertain. The Trump administration’s plans to cut federal funding, including indirect-cost payments for research, have raised concerns about the availability of resources for scientific inquiry. Researchers fear that these budget cuts could have a significant impact on the scientific community and impede progress in critical areas of study.
In light of these developments, scientists are calling for a thoughtful and evidence-based approach to policymaking under Kennedy’s leadership. The scientific community remains vigilant and committed to upholding the integrity of research and advancing our understanding of health and disease.
This article was originally published on February 13, 2025, and has been reproduced with permission from Nature magazine.
