The issue focused on climate change but scientists told ABC News they saw similar instances around the country as scientists worried about losing scientific funding for studies into biological phenomena such as tropical storms and wildfires.

National Science Foundation scientist Jeffrey Sachs said science research should not be discouraged because it takes money away from researchers who study religion or politics.

"Science research has become increasingly politicized," he said. "Many academics say science research should not be suppressed because it costs money."

Jeffrey Jensen, professor emeritus