Johns Hopkins University announced on Thursday the elimination of more than 2,200 positions due to the termination of $800 million in grants by the Trump administration. This unprecedented reduction affects both domestic and international staff, marking the most significant layoffs in the institution’s history.
The job cuts include 1,975 positions across 44 countries and 247 roles within the United States. Additionally, approximately 100 employees will face furloughs with reduced schedules. These layoffs span the university’s Bloomberg School of Public Health, its medical school, and the affiliated nonprofit Jhpiego, which focuses on international health initiatives.
In a statement, the university expressed deep concern over the funding cuts, stating, “The termination of more than $800 million in USAID funding is now forcing us to wind down critical work here in Baltimore and internationally.”
The loss of funding stems from the Trump administration’s efforts to significantly reduce the budget of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that over 80% of USAID programs have been canceled following a comprehensive review.
Jhpiego, established in 1973, has been a pivotal entity in improving healthcare for women and families in low-income countries. The nonprofit has been instrumental in combating infectious diseases such as HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis, and in enhancing access to medical care globally.
The funding cuts also coincide with federal investigations into several American universities, including Johns Hopkins, concerning allegations of antisemitism linked to pro-Palestinian protests on campuses. Recently, the administration revoked $400 million in grants and contracts from Columbia University under similar scrutiny.
Johns Hopkins, along with other research institutions, is preparing for potential further reductions in government funding, particularly concerning the National Institutes of Health. The university has joined legal actions challenging these planned cuts, emphasizing the potential threats to its research capabilities and financial stability.
The economic impact of these layoffs is expected to be substantial, especially in Maryland, where Johns Hopkins is a major employer. In 2022, the university and its affiliates accounted for over 93,600 jobs and contributed more than $15 billion to the state’s economic output.
As the situation develops, Johns Hopkins University is assessing the full extent of the impact on its programs and workforce, both domestically and internationally.