Unforeseen Scientific Hurdles in 2025 That Could Take You by Astonishment
Egg prices continue to soar as bird flu rages through poultry farms across the United States. Recently, the USDA was forced to swiftly bolster its team of scientific researchers dealing with the issue after their positions were cut. While the public naturally focuses on the financial impact on their households, they might not recognize the critical role of science in this economic strain. This scenario highlights three pressing challenges the U.S. is currently facing in terms of science.
Despite fewer than 30% of Americans being scientifically literate, the U.S. has made significant strides in scientific discovery throughout its history. Despite the occasional wobble, public trust in science and scientists remains relatively high. A 2023 Pew Research study revealed that the U.S. public has more confidence in scientists than in business leaders, politicians, or religious leaders. With pressing challenges such as diseases, climate change, energy production, and food supply ahead, science will play a crucial role in developing new solutions.
Nevertheless, the threats to science now aren't confined to the laboratory or field.
Sustaining Scientific Excellence
As an atmospheric scientist, I'd like to explore an area where I can add my two cents. Our country is on the brink of severe weather season. In my capacity as a professor at the University of Georgia, I frequently utilize weather radar in my research, instruction, and to monitor incoming storms.
We recently discussed the evolution of weather radar in my Radar and Mesoscale Meteorology class. From military applications to advanced Doppler-polarization capabilities, weather radar has greatly improved our safety. When the National Weather Service transitioned to Doppler Radar in the late 1980s, it represented a substantial leap forward. My graduate research even utilized some of the first available data from these new radars. The radars have since been upgraded further, equipped with technology that improves precipitation type, tornado debris, and intense rainfall detection.
However, the radars are now reaching the end of their useful life and will need to be upgraded soon. Fortunately, scientists at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are already conducting research on Phased Array Radar systems to advance technology, understand performance, and establish effectiveness.
Just as new medicines, materials, and energy sources don't materialize out of thin air, research and development are necessary to keep our existing technologies relevant. To achieve this, the U.S. has relied on the expertise of the National Science Foundation, NOAA, NASA, and other agencies, as well as funding for graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and scientists. By maintaining support for funding, core expertise, and technology development, we can:
- Adapt to evolving societal needs
- Protect public health, safety, and security
- Keep pace with other nations' scientific advancements
- Preserve our competitive edge in scientific fields
Recent U.S. breakthroughs include COVID vaccines, The Human Genome Project, hurricane forecast models, smarter cement, precision agriculture methods, and imaging a black hole. As we speak, NASA is monitoring an asteroid that could impact Earth in 2032. Scientific funding and expertise helped us learn it was there, and may play a crucial role in addressing a potential threat.
Communicating Science with a “Kitchen Table” Perspective
Most things feel local to people. For example, while a tornado may hit another part of the community, if it doesn't impact you directly, you might question its relevance or cost-effectiveness. It's easy to overlook the scientific principles behind everyday items, such as cell phones, GPS systems, and medications.
When discussing climate change, I adopt a "kitchen table" perspective. Climate change has far-reaching implications for our daily lives, such as food prices and transportation disruptions. By focusing on tangible and relatable examples, more people can understand the significance of scientific research.
Implementing an "All Hands on Deck" Approach
Science and innovation play a crucial role in addressing the challenges of our time. A comprehensive, multi-sector approach is required to keep our scientific research ecosystem strong. This includes involvement from the private sector, foundations, federal agencies, state and local governments, and non-governmental organizations. At this juncture, we can't afford to leave any good ideas on the table.
Scientists and science are essential for everyday life. The technological advancements we enjoy are often a direct result of scientific research. Let's ensure our scientific community and institutions receive the support they need to continue driving progress.
- Despite the ongoing challenge of climate change, the USDA has been working diligently to address elevated egg prices caused by bird flu outbreaks, recently strengthening their team of researchers in response to position cuts.
- The impact of climate change extends beyond financial implications and reaches into various aspects of our daily lives, such as food prices and transportation disruptions.
- Scientific agencies like the USDA and NOAA play a crucial role in mitigating these challenges, often requiring funding and support for graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and scientists.
- The National Science Foundation (NSF) and NASA, for instance, have contributed significantly to U.S. breakthroughs in areas such as COVID vaccines, precision agriculture methods, and imaging a black hole.
- Recognizing the importance of science, a 2023 Pew Research study revealed that Americans have more confidence in scientists than in business leaders, politicians, or religious leaders.
- However, sustaining scientific excellence and embracing advancements depend on a disconnect-free approach that fosters collaboration between federal agencies, such as NOAA, state and local governments, and the private sector.
- As NASA continues to monitor potential threats, like an asteroid that could impact Earth in 2032, it underscores the necessity of maintaining support for scientific research and funding, protecting our competitive edge in scientific fields and preserving societal progress.
