No new restrictions on foreign scientists needed

Abstract

Maintaining an open research environment is more important than imposing restrictions to curb foreign influence on US science, according to a new report by an influential defense advisory panel. Instead, the group, Jason, recommends strengthening requirements that scientists disclose foreign commitments and affiliations while maintaining the current system to narrowly classify sensitive research to prevent dissemination. “The benefits of openness in research and of the inclusion of talented foreign researchers dictate against measures that would wall off particular areas of fundamental research,” says the report from Jason, an independent advisory panel that provides advice to the government, primarily on defense issues. Some people have called for tighter restrictions on immigration and access to research to protect US science from foreign influence, especially from the Chinese government. In response, the National Science Foundation approached Jason for advice. Jason concluded that there are widespread issues of foreign influence that threaten the US