Interview with Marileen Dogterom: 'This isn't just about America; it's about us too'

A serious blow to science

Dogterom expresses deep concern about the impact on a vital component of international science, much of which is based in America. 'International exchange of research data and collaboration with American scientists is now severely compromised,' Dogterom says. 'Conferences are being canceled, funding is halted, censorship is taking place—this significantly sets back scientific progress.' The damage goes beyond the scientific content itself, Dogterom points out. 'We're talking about individuals and their livelihoods. Scientists and young researchers are watching their careers vanish into thin air.'

A structural threat

According to Dogterom, these measures are not isolated incidents but part of a structural shift. 'It's not uncommon for a new American administration to temporarily freeze subsidies while reassessing priorities before continuing. But this goes far beyond that. Consider the questionnaires from the US government that have even reached Dutch researchers—that's unprecedented.'

The role of KNAW

The KNAW is closely monitoring developments in the US and has conducted a survey among its members to gauge the impact these American developments have on their research practices. KNAW receives various signals through multiple channels about how these measures are affecting science in the Netherlands. Dogterom stresses the importance of this approach: 'We can clarify what's happening and provide explanations, including through media outlets. On behalf of the KNAW, I consistently underline the importance of safeguarding academic freedom and scientific integrity for the health of our democracy.'

Academic freedom

Dogterom also urges Dutch politicians to take a clear stand in defense of academic freedom. 'Our government—including the Prime Minister and notably the Minister of Education, Culture, and Science—must strongly support academic freedom across all research disciplines, as we see happening in other European countries. Minister Bruins has made supportive statements; now I would like to see him put concrete actions behind those words.'

Attracting top scientists to the Netherlands

Dogterom suggests another area where Dutch politics can play an active role is in making the Netherlands a more attractive base for scientific researchers again. Minister Bruins (Education, Culture, and Science) has asked the Dutch Research Council (NWO) to create a fund aimed at attracting leading international scientists conducting research relevant to the Netherlands, including researchers from the US. Dogterom comments: 'This is a great idea, as it can partly counterbalance the ongoing assault on independent science. However, this plan will only succeed if the announced drastic budget cuts to Dutch science are reversed—firstly, because further cuts risk more layoffs among current scientists, and secondly, because we will have little to offer these top-tier researchers otherwise.'

United Europe

Finally, Dogterom stresses the importance of keeping the bigger picture in mind and working closely with European partners. KNAW recently underscored this commitment by signing the ALLEA statement. Additionally, Europe is developing robust and secure alternatives for data and technology infrastructure. 'We must tackle this together as Europe—not to shut the door on the US, but to reduce our vulnerability,' Dogterom concludes.