Harvard in News on 1/22/2025

 

Pioneer of modern data privacy Cynthia Dwork wins National Medal of Science

Cynthia Dwork, a Harvard computer scientist, was awarded the 2025 National Medal of Science for her pioneering work in cryptography, distributed computing, and differential privacy. Her contributions, particularly in creating mathematical frameworks that enable secure, privacy-preserving data analysis, have revolutionized modern data privacy practices. Dwork's work underpins technologies used in Apple devices and the U.S. Census. Her groundbreaking research also advanced cryptography for the internet and post-quantum security. Dwork joins 14 other recipients in receiving this prestigious honor for her exceptional leadership in science and technology.

Researchers make leap in quantum computing - Trapping molecules for use in systems may help make ultra-high-speed experimental technology even faster

Harvard scientists have achieved a breakthrough by successfully trapping molecules to perform quantum operations, a long-sought goal in quantum computing. Using ultra-cold polar sodium-cesium molecules as qubits, they created an iSWAP quantum gate, achieving a 94% accurate two-qubit Bell state. This milestone, published in Nature.

 

Decoding the Chemistry of the Microbiome - Scientists zoom in on microbial messages at the molecular level to understand how the microbiome shapes health

Sloan Devlin, an associate professor at Harvard, is leading efforts to bridge the gap between microbiome research and therapeutic development. While early studies focused on correlations between microbiomes and diseases, Devlin and other researchers are now exploring how specific microbes and their metabolites influence health. Through techniques like metabolomics and microbiome manipulation, they are identifying the molecules that contribute to conditions like obesity, autoimmune diseases, and mood disorders. This research promises to lead to targeted therapies that could treat diseases by manipulating specific microbial pathways, marking a significant step forward in understanding the microbiome's role in health.

 

Trump Tells Federal Officials To Rein In DEI Programs at Universities

President Donald Trump issued an executive order targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs at colleges, including Harvard, requiring federally funded institutions to eliminate DEI initiatives deemed discriminatory under civil rights laws. The order, part of a broader campaign against DEI policies, directs agencies to identify wealthy institutions like Harvard for alleged violations, calls for litigation and regulatory action, and seeks to implement the Supreme Court's 2023 affirmative action ruling. Although DEI offices face closure, academic discussions on race and gender remain permissible. Harvard is expected to challenge these measures through lobbying efforts.

 

One Day After Trump Takes Office, Harvard Settles Two Antisemitism Lawsuits

Harvard settled two Title VI lawsuits on antisemitism one day after President Trump’s inauguration, aligning with his administration's focus on combating campus antisemitism. The settlements required Harvard to adopt the IHRA definition of antisemitism, protect Jewish and Israeli students, and establish ties with an Israeli university. While Harvard emphasized its commitment to addressing antisemitism, critics raised concerns about potential limits on free speech, especially regarding anti-Zionist expression. Proponents viewed the settlement as a step toward combating bigotry, but others argued it conflates political criticism of Israel with antisemitism. No wrongdoing was admitted in the settlements.

 

Harvard Jewish Groups, Pro-Palestine Activists React to Antisemitism Settlement

Harvard's settlement of two antisemitism lawsuits, including its adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Association (IHRA) definition of antisemitism, has sparked mixed reactions among student groups. Jewish organizations like Harvard Hillel expressed cautious optimism, viewing it as a step toward combating antisemitism, while pro-Palestine groups criticized the move as suppressing free speech and aligning with political pressures under the new Trump administration. Critics argue the IHRA definition conflates anti-Zionism with antisemitism, raising concerns about potential censorship of pro-Palestinian activism. The settlement reflects Harvard’s efforts to navigate rising tensions while addressing accusations of discrimination.

 

Hasty Pudding To Hold Space for Cynthia Erivo as 2025 Woman of the Year

Actress Cynthia Erivo, an Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Award winner, has been named Hasty Pudding Theatricals’ 2025 Woman of the Year. Known for her roles in Wicked: Part One, Harriet, and Genius: Aretha, Erivo will be honored on February 5 with a roast, parade, and Pudding Pot ceremony, followed by a performance of the group’s annual musical comedy. Hasty Pudding praised her impactful contributions to entertainment, with organizers expressing excitement for the event, blending humor and admiration for Erivo’s celebrated career.

 

Op Eds: All It Takes To Censor Speech at Harvard Is a Lawsuit

This opinion piece criticizes Harvard's settlement of two antisemitism lawsuits, arguing it undermines free speech and academic freedom. The author highlights the adoption of the IHRA definition of antisemitism, which they claim conflates legitimate criticism of Israel with antisemitism, potentially chilling vital debates on contentious issues. The piece questions the legitimacy of the lawsuits, labeling them as weak, and warns that Harvard's concessions invite further legal challenges that could erode free speech norms. It concludes that Harvard's actions cater to external pressures rather than fostering open intellectual discourse.