SfN Opposes Executive Order on Non-Immigrant Visa Restrictions
SfN released the following statement calling for an end to visa restrictions extended by the Trump administration’s recent executive order and reaffirming SfN’s commitment to the free exchange of information, diversity, and global collaboration.
The Society for Neuroscience is opposed to the recent executive order extending restrictions on non-immigrant visas. By limiting the pool of talented and passionate scientists available to laboratories, universities, and private industry, this action only serves to damage scientific advancement without accomplishing any stated goals. Scientists from around the world come to the United States to learn, to advance research, and to hasten cures and treatments for disease. By closing its doors, the U.S. loses invaluable talent, the economy is harmed, scientific discoveries are stalled or lost forever, and the U.S. isolates itself from the global community.
Scientific research is a worldwide effort, building on insights and perspectives from a wide range of people. The global exchange of ideas, concepts, and discoveries increase our understanding of all aspects of society, from neuroscience and mental health to innovative neurotechnologies. Science provides facts and data fundamental to decisions and policies that address a wide range of challenges facing the United States and countries around the world.
SfN urges the Trump administration to rescind these visa restrictions to help advance the global goal of scientific discovery and innovation. Diseases and disorders are not held back by borders—and cures and treatments depend on scientific collaborations and partnerships worldwide.
