Mass resignations in March by thousands of high-level individuals throughout the French research establishment, to express grievances vis-a-vis government policies, have led to an ongoing review of all aspects of the way research is conducted in France. The committee undertaking the examination is due to issue a preliminary report this summer. The number of individuals in high-level administrative and research positions in scientific research institutions across France who have resigned is now over 3,500; and includes directors and laboratory team leaders associated with the geosciences. The mass resignations began on 9 March.