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#1 out of 1
18h ago
She stood up for science despite White House pressure. This Louisianan is now being recognized.
- Virginia Burkett received the 2025 John Maddox Prize for ethics in science, recognizing researchers who stood up for science.
- The prize highlights Burkett's defense of scientific integrity when political appointees sought to alter climate assessments.
- Burkett recounted resisting changes to the National Climate Assessment during the Trump administration to protect report findings.
- The John Maddox Prize is awarded by Nature and honors researchers who advocate for evidence-based public policy.
- Burkett’s leadership helped shape early understandings of climate change and Louisiana’s coast.
- She served as a pilot and balanced demanding scientific roles with public service in Sabine Parish, Louisiana.
- Burkett’s whistleblower experience included a demotion and removal as chair of a climate program during the Trump era.
- The award ceremony occurred in London, where Burkett spoke about staying the course despite hostility.
- Burkett remains connected to Louisiana from Many, Sabine Parish, where her husband has served as district attorney for decades.
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