Romania’s researchers in limbo

Romania’s research crisis has deepened after prime minister Sorin Grindeanu resigned, following a vote of no confidence last month.

The move follows the dissolution of the country’s independent research councils in May, and their replacement with state-controlled bodies as part of a reform of research funding. The appointment of Mihai Tudose as Grindeanu’s replacement is unlikely to ease fears, as the new prime minister has not made research a national priority.

Tudose was appointed prime minister on 26 June. His government will oversee the implementation of controversial changes, which researchers say could push back Romanian science by decades.