Funding Suspension Announced
UCLA has disclosed that it will be losing federal research funding due to alleged antisemitism, a situation described by Chancellor Julio Frenk as “a loss for America.” The announcement was made on Thursday, though specific financial figures were not provided.
Impact on Research Community
Chancellor Frenk communicated to the campus community that the suspension comes from federal agencies, including the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). He expressed concern regarding the impact on researchers who depend on these vital grants.
“This is not only a loss to the researchers who rely on critical grants. It is a loss for Americans across the nation whose work, health, and future depend on the groundbreaking work we do,” he stated.
Context of the Cuts
This funding cut is part of a broader trend of pressure exerted by the Trump administration on universities following student protests regarding the conflict in Gaza. Some members of Congress have categorized these protests, along with certain actions, as antisemitic. In his message, Frenk noted that the federal government pointed to antisemitism as the justification for the funding loss.
“In its notice to us, the federal government claims antisemitism and bias as the reasons. This far-reaching penalty of defunding life-saving research does nothing to address any alleged discrimination,” he wrote.
Government Stance
The Department of Health and Human Services confirmed that such accusations of antisemitism were the basis for the funding cuts. An HHS official stated, “We will not fund institutions that promote antisemitism. We will use every tool we have to ensure institutions follow the law.”
Ongoing Legal Issues
UCLA recently reached a $6 million settlement in a lawsuit filed by Jewish students and a faculty member. The lawsuit, which arose in June 2024, claimed that the university failed to act against pro-Palestinian encampments on campus that spring.
Chancellor Frenk acknowledged that while antisemitism has no place at UCLA, there is still work to be done in addressing the issue. He mentioned that the university has implemented policies to combat antisemitism and manage student protests effectively.
NSF Statement
A spokesperson for the National Science Foundation indicated that the agency is suspending awards to UCLA because they do not align with current NSF priorities and program goals.
UCLA’s Contributions
Frenk emphasized UCLA’s significant contributions to advancements in various fields, including the creation of the internet and the development of technologies that could drive new industries and enhance military safety.
Political Backdrop
During his campaign, President Donald Trump pledged to take action against universities involved in protests against the Gaza conflict, which erupted after deadly Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, targeting civilians. The situation in Gaza has since escalated into a humanitarian crisis, leading to warnings from the United Nations regarding a worsening famine.
Columbia University recently announced a settlement with the federal government aimed at restoring its federally cut funding, and Brown University secured an agreement to reinstate their funding after addressing compliance with federal nondiscrimination obligations.
