Buenos Aires, Argentina – In the midst of an economic crisis and political changes, protests have erupted at the National Council of Scientific and Technical Research of Argentina (CONICET) against its new head, veterinarian Daniel Salamone. Appointed by President Javier Milei, Salamone assumed office in 2023 and faces widespread discontent among CONICET scientists and administrators.
President Milei, known for abolishing the Ministry of Science, has accused CONICET of being "unproductive." The agency, with 11,800 researchers, currently operates without an approved budget, and the staggering 200% annual inflation has significantly diminished its financial capacity.
Critics question Salamone's commitment to defending scientific interests, pointing to Milei's skepticism toward CONICET's productivity. In response, Salamone attributes the criticism to a biased reaction against Milei, highlighting the challenges of previous governments in managing science.
Salamone's background in cloning and private sector experience drew Milei's attention, with the president referring to him as the "national cloner." His achievements include cloning animals for various purposes, leading to the founding of multiple companies, aligning with Milei's vision of promoting entrepreneurial initiatives within CONICET.
The new head advocates for a shift in CONICET's resource allocation, emphasizing collaboration with the private sector to fund research addressing the poverty affecting 40% of Argentines. A proposed law supporting the transfer of scientific knowledge to private entities, endorsed by Milei, raises concerns among critics who fear it may divert funds from basic research.
Víctor Ramos, president of the National Academy of Exact, Physical and Natural Sciences of Argentina, criticizes Salamone's ideas as simplistic, expressing concern about the suspension of scholarships and promotions until a 2024 budget is approved. The move has left promising talents uncertain about their future and raises fears of brain drain as scientists may seek opportunities abroad.
Since Salamone's appointment, 50 administrators have been dismissed, triggering protests from over 260 leaders of CONICET's Scientific and Technological Centers nationwide, who decry the "dismantling" of organizational capabilities.
Salamone reassures that internationally recognized research areas within CONICET, such as paleontology and studies of microplastics, climate change, and the universe's origin, will be retained. However, critics stress the need for a stable research budget to ensure the agency's continued success in these fields.
Jorge Montanari, director of the National University of Hurlingham’s Laboratory of Nanosystems for Biotechnological Application, emphasizes the importance of expanding research to attract private investment, urging against budget cuts that could hinder scientific progress.
Salamone expresses a desire to retain and attract talented scientists to Argentina, acknowledging the need for initiatives that showcase the country's potential in scientific excellence. As CONICET navigates a period of uncertainty, the scientific community awaits developments that will determine the future trajectory of research in Argentina.
