Leading computational neuroscientist to join Kempner Institute, Center for Brain Science
SueYeon Chung, a rising star in theoretical and computational neuroscience, is joining the Harvard faculty as a Kempner Institute Investigator and Center for Brain Science member. Her research focuses on understanding the principles behind how the brain and artificial neural networks compute information. This appointment brings together expertise from across Harvard in physics, applied mathematics, and neuroscience to advance our understanding of intelligence in both natural and artificial systems. Dr. Chung will begin her position in July 2025.
Win Against Hate or Loss for Academic Freedom? Harvard Faculty Split Over Antisemitism Settlements
By William C. Mao and Veronica H. Paulus
Harvard's recent settlement of lawsuits regarding Title VI, which included adopting the IHRA definition of antisemitism, has sparked significant controversy among faculty. While some view it as a crucial step in addressing antisemitism on campus, others argue that it stifles academic freedom and sets a dangerous precedent for administrative overreach. The settlement has also ignited debate about the role of Zionism in academia, with some calling for changes to hiring practices and curriculum in certain fields. Concerns about the potential chilling effect on academic discourse and the influence of external pressures on University policy remain prominent.
Ivy League To Opt Out of NCAA Settlement, Rejecting Revenue Sharing for Athletes
The Ivy League has officially opted out of a proposed NCAA settlement that would allow for revenue sharing with student-athletes. This decision, which aligns with the Ivy League's long-standing "no pay-for-play" policy, could put the league at a competitive disadvantage in recruiting and retaining top talent, especially as other schools embrace NIL deals and revenue-sharing models. While the Ivy League has introduced its own NIL program, concerns remain about its ability to compete with other schools that offer more substantial financial incentives to athletes.
Anger and Anticipation: Harvard Students Tune In for Trump’s Presidential Inauguration
Just a week before the spring semester kicks off, President Donald Trump’s inauguration brings a different tone: somber, angry, and — for some — excited. As students return to Cambridge, interviewees anticipate negative reactions from their peers, whose political views generally lean liberal. According to The Crimson’s annual freshman survey, 83.2 percent of freshmen found Trump as an unfavorable presidential candidate.
Technological Complexity and U.S.-China Nuclear Competition
This event, "Technological Complexity and U.S.-China Nuclear Competition," will explore the impact of technological advancements on nuclear strategy. The speaker will challenge the prevailing notion of "counterforce dominance," which suggests that a state with superior nuclear weapons can achieve decisive advantage. They will argue that the complexity of modern weapons systems introduces significant uncertainty, a concept termed the "balance of nuclear humility." This uncertainty, arising from the difficulty of testing advanced weapons and the potential for unforeseen complications, can undermine the confidence of states pursuing ambitious nuclear doctrines. The speaker will illustrate this point with a Monte Carlo simulation demonstrating the significant impact of small variations in unknown factors on the outcome of a nuclear strike.
Lovestruck Books brings romance to Harvard Square
Lovestruck Books, a new romance bookstore in Cambridge, Massachusetts, has opened its doors, offering a haven for readers with diverse tastes. Owner Rachel Kanter, inspired by her own love for the genre, aims to create a welcoming space for all, featuring a wide selection of titles from diverse authors and fostering a community through book clubs and writing workshops. Lovestruck not only provides a retail experience but also seeks to challenge the stigma surrounding romance reading and celebrate the power of diverse love stories.