The Lovell Telescope has been overtaken in size by larger radio telescopes, but has continuously been modernised and remains key to the UK’s radio astronomy capability.
It supports thousands of scientists who use its research, and 28 jobs could be lost if alternative funding cannot be found for the site.
The cut by the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) agency comes while construction of a new super radio telescope in South Africa and Australia called the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) is underway.
It is set to start gathering data in five years, and by failing to back Jodrell Bank, the UK risks missing out on this scientific bonanza, according to Prof Philip Diamond.
The former head of Jodrell Bank as well as the SKA organisation, said: “It’s removing the science capability which is essential for the long-term health of UK radio astronomy and the SKA.
“So it would have a severe impact on the training and career of young researchers.”