Scientists Advocate ‘Discovery Compact’ to Secure U.S. Basic Research Funding

A perspective article on Phys.org, authored by physicist Sergio Carbajo together with co‑authors, contends that America requires a fresh social pact—named the “Discovery Compact”—to rebuild a steady base for fundamental scientific research that has been deteriorating lately.

Following World War II, an implicit accord among the federal government, universities and industry directed sizable, long‑range investments toward exploratory science. Institutions like the National Science Foundation and the Department of Energy established a pipeline that yielded breakthroughs ranging from the transistor to the human genome, securing U.S. preeminence in innovation for many years.

The writers argue that the once‑stable compact has been shaken by shifting budget priorities, intensified partisan fights over research money, and an increasing dependence on short‑term, mission‑focused initiatives. Their recommendation presents common tenets: a cross‑party pledge to multi‑year financing, an open merit‑based review process, and avenues for wider public participation that highlight the societal benefits of discovery‑oriented research.

Reinstating a robust funding structure is crucial since basic research drives long‑term technological advancement, economic expansion and national security. Absent a steady foundation, the conduit that converts laboratory findings into marketable products may wither, risking the United States falling behind rising scientific competitors.

Carbajo and his co‑authors urge lawmakers, agency heads and the research sector to initiate a discussion on the Discovery Compact and to consider specific policy actions, for example bills that set aside consistent portions of the federal budget for fundamental science. They maintain that a refreshed social pact could restore the assurance required for universities and laboratories to embark on high‑risk, high‑reward projects that have traditionally transformed the world.