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Physicists Protest 30% Funding Cuts, Postdocs Eye Exodus

6/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Leading physicists, led by Professor Brian Cox, protested in Westminster against the UK’s proposed physics funding cuts.
The Science and Technology Facilities Council said the cuts could reduce physics research budgets by up to 30 %.
A survey found about three quarters of postdoctoral physicists are considering leaving the United Kingdom.
Ministers said the savings target is unclear, citing figures from £162 million to £648 million and a shift toward AI.

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Story summary

Leading physicists, led by Professor Brian Cox, protested in Westminster against the UK’s proposed physics funding cuts.
The Science and Technology Facilities Council said the cuts could reduce physics research budgets by up to 30 %.
A survey found about three quarters of postdoctoral physicists are considering leaving the United Kingdom.
Ministers said the savings target is unclear, citing figures from £162 million to £648 million and a shift toward AI.