Global Scans · Science · Weekly Summary

• [New] In 2026, China's leadership will 1) prioritize spending on science and technology and national defence 2) neglect spending on social security 3) allow debt interest payments to rise more quickly. Merics
• [New] The Commerce Department announced last week that it will provide more than $2 billion in CHIPS and Science Act funds to several quantum companies, including for quantum foundries at IBM and GlobalFoundries. AIP
• [New] Every member state of the ITER agreement (which includes more than 30 countries) will have access to all the science that comes out of ITER, and the construction of ITER itself is developing a global fusion energy supply chain. CNet
• [New] Industry analyses from BCG and McKinsey identify materials science as the highest-value near-term vertical for quantum computing, with a global value approaching $100 billion by 2035 (Boston Consulting Group, 2021; McKinsey & Company, 2024). Texas Public Policy Foundation -
• [New] The MIT-IBM Computing Research Lab will focus on quantum algorithms and hybrid computing systems, targeting breakthroughs in materials science, chemistry, and biology. Quantum Computing Report
• [New] We expect UKAEA and wider UK R&D to deliver key advances in plasma science, robotics, materials testing and tritium handling, and UK Fusion Energy will deliver core technical milestones for STEP. GOV.UK
• [New] The second European Programme of Work 2026-2030 positions technical excellence as core element for future-proofing WHO / Europe, ensuring that its policies, programmes, and partnerships are built upon cutting-edge science, responsive to the evolving needs of Member States and driven by innovation. World Health Organization: WHO
• [New] India's Department of Telecommunications launched 100 5G Use Case Labs at educational institutions under the national 5G Innovation Initiative, while South Korea's Ministry of Science allocated KRW 390 Bn to smart city 5G integration through 2027. Persistence Market Research
• [New] Ottawa could consider reforming its immigration strategy to attract and retain professors and graduate students in computer and materials science, mechanical and chemical engineering, and AI and machine learning, deepening the ecosystem of competitively priced tech talent. RBC
• Only cars from brands committed to a Science-Based Target for cutting emissions - and that have demonstrated real progress - will qualify. carwow.co.uk
• FSIS will expand the capabilities of the existing FSIS Eastern Field Services Laboratory in Athens, Georgia, establishing a Science Center with a focus on microbiology, chemistry, and epidemiology. JD Supra
• The FDA needs 'strong, stable and science-driven leadership' right now, warning that the US is 'losing the biotech race with China'. Chemistry World
• A clearer, science-based regulatory framework, supported by transparent communication and stakeholder engagement, will be crucial for advancing the responsible adoption of CRISPR-based innovations in Indian agriculture. PubMed Central (PMC)
• As science continues to advance, GMCs will continue to be crucial to improving food security and resilience to global challenges. PubMed Central (PMC)

Last updated: 01 June 2026