The administration of Donald Trump has dismissed several members of the National Science Foundation’s governing board, according to reporting from The Washington Post. The decision has prompted concern among scientists and policymakers about the agency’s future direction.

Members of the National Science Board were notified by the White House Presidential Personnel Office that their positions were being ended immediately, as reported by The Hill.

One of the affected members, Marvi Matos Rodriguez, said she discovered her removal while reviewing work related to her role. She had served on the board since 2022. Rodriguez noted that the board’s six-year terms are intended to allow members to contribute meaningfully beyond changes in political leadership.

It is still unclear how many board members were removed or whether replacements will be appointed. Neither the White House nor the NSF provided immediate comment.

Meanwhile, Zoe Lofgren, the leading Democrat on the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, criticized the move. She emphasized that the board is meant to remain nonpartisan and plays an advisory role to the president regarding the NSF.

Lofgren argued that the decision could weaken scientific leadership and independence, expressing concern about the potential impact on the agency’s mission.