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陶哲轩都拿不到暑期工资,被迫给自己和学生筹钱
量子位·2025-09-12 03:24

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the severe impact of funding cuts on scientific research in the U.S., particularly at UCLA, where even top mathematicians like Terence Tao are struggling to secure funding for their research and students [2][4][5]. Funding Cuts and Their Impact - On July 25, 2023, the U.S. government abruptly suspended funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to UCLA, amounting to $500 million [4]. - Although a federal court restored some funding on August 12, the funds had not yet been disbursed by early September [5]. - The funding cuts have led to significant disruptions in ongoing research projects and have severely affected graduate students' opportunities for academic development [12][21]. Personal Experiences and Concerns - Terence Tao expressed greater concern for his students than for himself, emphasizing that the funding is crucial for their participation in academic conferences and career development [6][12]. - Tao has had to shift his focus from research to fundraising activities due to the funding crisis [7][19]. Broader Implications for the Research Ecosystem - The article discusses how the cuts have eroded the independence of the research ecosystem, with many ongoing projects being abruptly halted [12][15]. - Tao noted that the NSF's funding has historically facilitated collaboration between universities, laboratories, and industry, which is essential for scientific advancement [14]. Psychological Impact on Students - The funding instability creates an environment of uncertainty, negatively affecting students' mental health and their ability to focus on research [23]. - Tao highlighted that the loss of funding directly impacts students' scholarships and research assistant positions, which are vital for their livelihoods [21][22]. Future Considerations - In an interview, Tao expressed uncertainty about his future in the U.S. academic landscape, indicating a potential shift in his perspective on remaining in the country due to the funding issues [24].