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].

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. scientific research system is facing unprecedented challenges due to abrupt funding cuts from the government, leading to a crisis in research institutions like UCLA and IPAM, which are struggling to maintain operations and support for emerging scientists [1][5][12]. Group 1: Impact on Research Funding - The U.S. government has implemented drastic cuts to research funding, resulting in the suspension of billions in ongoing projects and experiments [12][14]. - Many scholarships and research grants aimed at nurturing the next generation of scientists have been significantly reduced, causing a loss of opportunities for students and postdoctoral researchers [14][19]. - The National Science Foundation (NSF) has drastically cut funding for key programs, leading to delays and interruptions in research plans [14][19]. Group 2: Personal Accounts and Reactions - Mathematician Terence Tao expressed deep frustration over the funding cuts, stating that he has never felt such despair in his 25-year research career [1][6]. - Tao's personal research funding has been suspended, and he has had to prioritize summer funding for his students amid the crisis [14][16]. - The leadership at UCLA has emphasized that research funding is an investment in the future, not a form of charity [17]. Group 3: Broader Implications for U.S. Science - The cuts are seen as a systematic dismantling of the research ecosystem that has historically supported scientific breakthroughs in the U.S. [11][12]. - The abrupt changes have bypassed established procedures, undermining the independence of the research community and its ability to respond to challenges [12][23]. - The government's actions have raised concerns about the future of scientific inquiry and the role of science in addressing national and global challenges [23][24].