Leading US Research Lab Appears to Be Squeezing Out Foreign Scientists

Wired

by Paresh Dave

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

One of the United States' leading scientific research institutions, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), is reportedly implementing new policies that could push foreign researchers out. These changes, which include limiting the stay of international graduate students and postdoctoral researchers to just three years, are sparking concerns among lawmakers and the scientific community. Critics argue that such restrictions could undermine NIST's mission by forcing away highly specialized人才 who often require five to seven years to complete their work. The rumored policies, which have not been officially communicated to employees or clarified by NIST leadership, are said to be aimed at enhancing research security but may instead damage the agency's credibility and expertise. House Democrats, including Zoe Lofgren and April McClain Delaney, have raised alarms over these measures, urging NIST to halt implementation until Congress reviews their necessity. The lawmakers emphasize that such restrictions exceed what is reasonable for protecting intellectual property, a priority for both parties. Meanwhile, NIST spokesperson Jennifer Huergo claims the changes are intended to safeguard US science from foreign adversaries, though details about approval processes and timelines remain unclear. The potential impact on NIST's research capabilities is significant. Foreign-born researchers contribute critical expertise in fields like cybersecurity, AI security, and semiconductor manufacturing. However, recent Trump administration policies—such as increased H-1B visa fees, student visa revocations, and mass deportations—already create an uncertain environment for immigrant scientists. If NIST's rumored restrictions are implemented, they could push talented researchers to pursue opportunities elsewhere, further hampering US tech innovation and economic growth. This issue aligns with broader Republican concerns about Chinese nationals working at national labs, but Democrats argue that such measures overreach and harm collaboration. The scientific community is closely watching how NIST handles this situation, particularly as it relates to transparency and the balance between research security and global talent recruitment. For tech enthusiasts, the outcome of these policies could determine whether the US remains a global leader in scientific discovery

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Originally published on Wired on 2/20/2026