U.S: Resignation of Trump-appointed Director of the National Science Foundation amid budget cuts

Sethuraman Panchanathan, appointed as director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) by President Donald Trump in 2020, resigns from his position on 24/04/2025. Brian Stone, the director’s chief of staff, will lead the agency on an interim basis.

"I believe I have done all I can to advance the critical mission of the agency and feel that it is time for me to pass the baton to new leadership", declares the Director in his resignation statement, 16 months before his 6-year term ends.

"I have always believed that innovation and opportunities must be unleashed everywhere at speed and scale, thereby nurturing talent in every corner of our great nation. This will ensure we remain competitive and innovative on a global scale.

This is a pivotal moment for our nation in terms of global competitiveness. NSF is an extremely important investment to make U.S. scientific dominance a reality. We must not lose our competitive edge", he states.

Sethuraman Panchanathan didn't give a reason for his departure from the NSF. The White House recently published orders to accept a 55% cut to the agency’s $9…