Beyond the cuts: Rethinking South African research dependencies amid funding uncertainty

This Commentary provides an overview of the lived experiences of biomedical researchers in the face of sudden and unexpected funding cuts for biomedical research and health care in South Africa and beyond.It outlines the potentially devastating impact of the cuts on scientific progress, human health and livelihoods.We highlight the urgent need to rethink existing funding models.Consideration is given to potential alternative approaches to move away from historical dependencies, to ensure the sustainability and resilience of the South African research ecosystem.Beyond the cuts: Rethinking South African research dependencies amid funding uncertainty