News
November 26, 2025
Uncertainty Pushes 18-Year Federal Science Communicator To Leave Profession
Thom Adamson had been through uncertainty in his job before, including government shutdowns. But earlier this year, it felt different.
**Uncertainty Pushes 18-Year Federal Science Communicator To Leave Profession**
For Thom Adamson, the world of federal science communication was more than just a job; it was a calling. After dedicating 18 years to translating complex scientific findings into accessible information for the public, Adamson has made the difficult decision to leave the profession, citing a pervasive sense of uncertainty as the primary driver.
Adamson’s career, built on a passion for bridging the gap between researchers and the general public, had weathered its share of storms. He navigated the challenges of government shutdowns, funding fluctuations, and shifting priorities, always maintaining his commitment to clear and accurate communication. However, earlier this year, something shifted. The uncertainty he felt wasn't the cyclical ebb and flow of government bureaucracy he'd grown accustomed to. It was deeper, more unsettling.
"It wasn't just about budget cuts or temporary furloughs," Adamson explained. "It felt like the very value of science communication itself was being questioned. The mission felt less clear, the support less certain."
This growing unease prompted Adamson to re-evaluate his career path. He found himself spending increasing amounts of time navigating internal bureaucratic hurdles, rather than focusing on the core mission of informing and engaging the public with scientific advancements. The constant need to justify the importance of his work and to adapt to rapidly changing directives took a toll.
While Adamson is not detailing the specifics of what he felt, the decision to leave after nearly two decades speaks volumes about the challenges facing science communicators within the federal government. The situation raises broader questions about the support and resources allocated to these crucial roles, particularly in an era where scientific literacy and public trust in science are more important than ever.
Adamson's departure highlights the potential consequences of prolonged uncertainty within the federal science communication landscape. Experts fear that the loss of experienced professionals like Adamson could hinder the government's ability to effectively communicate vital scientific information to the public, impacting everything from public health initiatives to environmental policy. The hope is that Adamson's story will spark a crucial conversation about the importance of fostering a stable and supportive environment for federal science communicators, ensuring they can continue to play their vital role in informing and empowering the public.
For Thom Adamson, the world of federal science communication was more than just a job; it was a calling. After dedicating 18 years to translating complex scientific findings into accessible information for the public, Adamson has made the difficult decision to leave the profession, citing a pervasive sense of uncertainty as the primary driver.
Adamson’s career, built on a passion for bridging the gap between researchers and the general public, had weathered its share of storms. He navigated the challenges of government shutdowns, funding fluctuations, and shifting priorities, always maintaining his commitment to clear and accurate communication. However, earlier this year, something shifted. The uncertainty he felt wasn't the cyclical ebb and flow of government bureaucracy he'd grown accustomed to. It was deeper, more unsettling.
"It wasn't just about budget cuts or temporary furloughs," Adamson explained. "It felt like the very value of science communication itself was being questioned. The mission felt less clear, the support less certain."
This growing unease prompted Adamson to re-evaluate his career path. He found himself spending increasing amounts of time navigating internal bureaucratic hurdles, rather than focusing on the core mission of informing and engaging the public with scientific advancements. The constant need to justify the importance of his work and to adapt to rapidly changing directives took a toll.
While Adamson is not detailing the specifics of what he felt, the decision to leave after nearly two decades speaks volumes about the challenges facing science communicators within the federal government. The situation raises broader questions about the support and resources allocated to these crucial roles, particularly in an era where scientific literacy and public trust in science are more important than ever.
Adamson's departure highlights the potential consequences of prolonged uncertainty within the federal science communication landscape. Experts fear that the loss of experienced professionals like Adamson could hinder the government's ability to effectively communicate vital scientific information to the public, impacting everything from public health initiatives to environmental policy. The hope is that Adamson's story will spark a crucial conversation about the importance of fostering a stable and supportive environment for federal science communicators, ensuring they can continue to play their vital role in informing and empowering the public.
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