Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant impact of funding cuts on the research ecosystem in the United States, particularly at UCLA, where even top mathematicians like Terence Tao are affected by the inability to secure research funding and salaries [2][4][5]. Funding Cuts and Their Impact - On July 25, 2023, the U.S. government abruptly suspended funding from agencies like 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 actual disbursement of funds did not occur until early September [5]. - The funding cuts have severely affected graduate students, who rely on these resources for attending academic conferences and advancing their careers [6][21]. Research Ecosystem Disruption - The article discusses how the funding interruptions have led to the cancellation of ongoing research projects and a reduction in scholarships for training the next generation of scientists [12][15]. - The NSF's funding cuts have particularly impacted UCLA, disrupting the research environment and depriving students of essential early career opportunities [15][16]. Personal Experiences and Concerns - Terence Tao expresses concern for his students over his own financial situation, emphasizing the importance of funding for their academic and professional development [6][12]. - The article notes that Tao has had to shift his focus from research to fundraising, which is not a sustainable way to operate a world-class scientific institution [7][17]. Broader Implications - The article reflects on the psychological impact of funding instability on students, who may struggle to focus on their research due to financial uncertainties [23]. - Tao's uncertainty about remaining in the U.S. due to these funding issues indicates a broader concern among academics regarding the future of research in the country [24].

Group 1 - The "Intelligent Science or Mathematics Award" was awarded to Richard S. Palais from Stanford University for his groundbreaking work in geometric analysis and differential geometry, which has practical applications in fields like computer graphics and cryptography [1] - The "Life Sciences or Medicine Award" was awarded to Scott Emmer from Cornell University and Wes Sundquist from the University of Utah for their significant discoveries related to receptor membrane protein transport and degradation mechanisms, which are crucial for understanding viral budding and infection processes [1] - The 2025 World Top Scientists Forum will open on October 24 in the Lingang New Area, featuring the award ceremony for the Top Science Association Awards [3] Group 2 - Wes Sundquist expressed excitement about his upcoming first visit to China, highlighting China's leadership in the scientific field and the potential for collaboration with local scientists [2]

Core Points - The federal government has cut off research funding to UCLA, impacting numerous scholars including Fields Medalist Terence Tao, who expressed that his research team is now "starving" and unable to continue their work [1][4][11] - The decision to freeze funding was based on allegations of racial bias in UCLA's research environment, leading to the suspension of nearly 500 NIH grants and two Department of Energy grants, totaling over $500 million in funding for 2024 [3][13][16] Group 1 - The unprecedented action not only halts personal research funding for scholars like Tao but also poses a critical threat to the existence of the Institute for Pure and Applied Mathematics (IPAM) at UCLA [4][18] - Tao's personal funding has been paused, significantly affecting his ability to support his research team, and he has had to delay his summer salary to use previous NSF grants to support graduate students [5][6][7] - IPAM's funding situation is dire, with its emergency funds expected to last only a few months, despite having received preliminary approval for a new five-year funding round earlier this year [9][20] Group 2 - UCLA's president, Julio Frenk, has publicly responded to the funding cuts, emphasizing the detrimental impact on researchers and the broader implications for public health and future advancements reliant on cutting-edge research [17][14] - The loss of IPAM would have an immeasurable impact on the next generation of mathematical scientists, particularly those from non-top-tier institutions, as it provides crucial opportunities for early-career scholars to engage with emerging interdisciplinary fields [35][32] - Tao highlighted that the most valuable contribution of institutions like IPAM is not just to established researchers but to young scholars who benefit from exposure to new interdisciplinary opportunities [31][34]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the public perception of mathematician Wei Dongyi, contrasting his achievements in mathematics competitions with the expectations of academic contributions, emphasizing the distinction between being a "problem solver" and a "mathematician" [7][72]. Group 1: Public Perception and Media Influence - Wei Dongyi's rise to fame is attributed to his relatable persona and media portrayal, which has led to a "cult of personality" around him, likening him to a modern-day mathematical hero [3][63]. - The public often conflates competition success with mathematical ability, overlooking the complexities of academic research [14][19]. - The media's sensationalism has contributed to the idolization of Wei, creating a narrative that may distort the understanding of true mathematical contributions [6][67]. Group 2: Distinction Between Competition and Academic Research - Achievements in competitions like the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) showcase problem-solving skills but do not equate to the innovative thinking required in academic research [10][11]. - Historical mathematicians are recognized not just for solving problems but for their foundational contributions to the field, which Wei has yet to achieve [13][15]. - The article argues that the public's focus on competition results can mislead them about the nature of mathematical research, which is often long-term and complex [14][19]. Group 3: Evaluation of Wei Dongyi's Contributions - If a hierarchy of mathematical contributions were established, Wei would likely fall into the seventh or eighth tier, indicating potential but not yet significant achievements [41][43]. - His research primarily focuses on partial differential equations and geometric analysis, with some notable contributions, but lacks groundbreaking discoveries recognized at the international level [80][88]. - The article suggests that while Wei has demonstrated exceptional problem-solving abilities, he has not yet made widely acknowledged theoretical advancements [72][78]. Group 4: Cultural and National Significance - The phenomenon surrounding Wei reflects a broader societal appreciation for mathematics as a cornerstone of modern civilization and national pride [94][96]. - His success in international competitions resonates with a collective sense of national achievement, contributing to a narrative of China's rising status in the mathematical world [70][71]. - The article posits that the public's fascination with Wei is not merely about individual talent but also about a deeper cultural respect for knowledge and intellectual pursuit [96][98].