To the editor:

“China will do it.” This was the conclusion of the scientists at a recent National Science Foundation review panel for biological science, in response to the large number of excellent proposals that would not be funded because of our ever-reducing budget for research. Even some of the funded proposals send work to China because they have invested in science and research infrastructure that allows them to do work that we cannot do as quickly, easily or inexpensively.

While China is investing massively in higher education and research, our state is reducing our own higher education and research capacity. China knows they need those things to develop jobs and boost their economy for the 21st century. I do not know what our state leaders think they are building for the future good of our state. Our state motto might include “To the stars,” but it will not be investments from Kansas that put us there, or Kansans who will benefit from high-paying jobs in the new industries of this century. China will do it.