UBE joins the ‘Stand Up For Science’ movement

Université Bourgogne Europe is actively involved in the international ‘Stand Up For Science’ movement by organising an event dedicated to the current challenges facing scientific research. Vincent Thomas, President of UBE, and Nadine Millot, Vice-President for Research, invited the university community and the general public to a time of discussion and reflection on the threats to science and academic freedom.

The event, which took place on Thursday 3 April 2025 at 1pm in the Gabriel Building, began with an introduction by Nadine Millot, highlighting the importance of scientific research and the current challenges it faces. Several researchers then took the floor: Thomas Thévenin, UBE University Professor and Director of the THEMA laboratory, spoke about the loss of scientific data and its consequences for climate research. Vincent Boudon, CNRS Research Director at the ICB laboratory, discussed the dismantling of research infrastructures and its impact on climate risk forecasting. Yves Richard and Benjamin Pohl, UBE University Professors and CNRS Research Director at the Biogeosciences laboratory, shared their perspectives on the current and future challenges of climate research.

An interactive round-table discussion followed these presentations, providing an opportunity for dialogue between the researchers and the audience. Discussions focused on the changes to be expected in the field of climate research, the opportunities for France and Europe in relation to American researchers seeking new opportunities, and ways of guaranteeing the security and sovereignty of scientific data.

The movement’s genesis

The ‘Stand Up For Science‘ movement emerged in response to increasing threats to scientific research, particularly in the US under the Trump administration. Demonstrations and similar initiatives have taken place around the world to protest against budget cuts, the sacking of government scientists, and political interference in scientific processes. The event on 3 April at UBE was part of this international drive to defend scientific integrity and raise public awareness of the crucial issues involved in climate change research. By taking part in the event, participants helped to support the scientific community and promote academic freedom.

Find out more about Stand Up For Science.