The National Aeronautics and Space Administration, NASA, on Tuesday announced the dismissal of its chief scientist and others in compliance with orders issued by US President Donald Trump.

The development marks the latest in a series of administration actions undermining climate change research.

While the move affects only 23 people, a spokeswoman disclosed that more cuts are expected.

The first round notably eliminated the Office of the Chief Scientist, led by Katherine Calvin, a renowned climatologist who contributed to key UN climate reports.

Calvin and other US delegates were reportedly barred from attending a major climate science meeting in China last month.

“To optimize our workforce, and in compliance with an Executive Order, NASA is beginning its phased approach to a reduction in force, known as a RIF,” agency spokeswoman Cheryl Warner said.

Also eliminated are the Office of Technology, Policy and Strategy, and the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Branch of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

It was gathered that NASA has so far avoided the deep cuts affecting other agencies, reportedly due to last minute intervention by Jared Isaacman, Trump’s nominee for NASA chief.

In February, there were reports that NASA had been preparing to lay off around a thousand probationary employees.

US: NASA fires chief scientist, more cuts expected