Source: Successful Farming
The Trump administration has ordered the U.S. Department of Agriculture to scrutinize foreign scientists who collaborate with its researchers, directing employees to investigate co-authors for potential “subversive or criminal activity.” Under the new policy, staff are instructed to conduct online background checks and submit names of foreign collaborators to the agency’s Office of Homeland Security for review. The directive applies to research produced by the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service and includes bans on collaborating with scientists from designated “countries of concern,” such as China, Iran, and Russia, while also vetting researchers from allied nations like Canada and Germany.
Internal records and meeting audio reveal widespread concern among USDA staff, who described the process as invasive and “dystopic.” Critics warn the policy could undermine scientific integrity, discourage international collaboration, and disproportionately harm students and postdoctoral researchers on temporary visas. The USDA argues the measures are necessary to protect U.S.-funded research and national security, despite fears of chilling innovation.