Researchers say they are using unconventional crowdfunding efforts, including an OnlyFans account and a fundraising event called “Fat Marmot Week,” to keep field research going after federal funding cuts. The work requires securing multi-year support—described as three years and more than $200,000—to ensure research continues next summer.
The Independent reports that scientists are turning to platforms and community-driven promotions to bridge gaps left by reduced government funding. Yahoo UK also covers the same effort, focusing on how the researchers are combining online subscription-style fundraising with themed local or community fundraising to reach targets. While the outlets differ mainly in their emphasis—one framing the story through the specific platforms used and the other through the broader concept of researchers adapting to shortfalls—they agree on the central point: the funding gap is tied to federal cutbacks and threatens continuity of upcoming research.
Overall, the coverage presents the campaign as a practical response to a funding deadline and a need for longer-term financial stability, rather than a change in research goals.
