A federal judge on Wednesday paused cuts to health funding nationwide in response to a lawsuit filed by Oregon and 21 other states against the Trump administration. Universities and Democratic-led states warned the cuts would lead to layoffs, lab closures and a curtailment of scientific and medical studies.

Hundreds gathered at the Oregon State Capitol on Friday as part of a nationwide "Stand Up for Science" rally advocating for federal support of research and scientists. Scientists, students, advocates and community members held signs and led chants protesting recent mass layoffs and funding cuts at the direction of the Trump administration.

President Donald Trump’s pick to lead the National Institutes of Health appeared poised for Senate confirmation following a Wednesday hearing.