NIST Enforces New Restrictions on Noncitizen Scientists
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has implemented new restrictions limiting after-hours access for noncitizen scientists, raising concerns among lawmakers about the potential loss of expertise and credibility. Reports indicate that international researchers may face a cap of three years at NIST, despite many requiring five to seven years to complete their work, while offers to hire foreign workers have been canceled due to new security checks. Zoe Lofgren, the top Democrat on the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, has called for transparency regarding these changes, arguing that they exceed reasonable measures for research security.