LOS ANGELES — UCLA has been informed that it will lose some federal research funding due to allegations of antisemitism and bias, according to Chancellor Julio Frenk. In a statement released Thursday, Frenk described the funding suspension as a significant setback not only for the university but also for the broader American public.

"UCLA received a notice that the federal government, through its control of the National Science Foundation (NSF), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other agencies, is suspending certain research funding to UCLA," Frenk stated. He emphasized that this decision represents a loss for researchers who depend on these critical grants and for Americans whose health and future rely on the university's innovative work.

Frenk noted that the decision could result in the loss of hundreds of grants, which he called "deeply disappointing." He criticized the federal government's rationale, saying, "This far-reaching penalty of defunding life-saving research does nothing to address any alleged discrimination."

The funding suspension follows a recent $6 million settlement UCLA reached with Jewish students who alleged that the university failed to protect them from pro-Palestinian protests that disrupted their access to campus. Frenk acknowledged the need for improvement in addressing antisemitism, stating, "Antisemitism has no place on our campus, nor does any form of discrimination. We recognize that we can improve, and I am committed to doing so."

He added that UCLA has implemented policies to combat antisemitism and ensure a safe environment for all students. The university is currently evaluating its options in light of the funding loss. "For the past several months, our leadership team has been preparing for this situation and have developed comprehensive contingency plans," Frenk said.

He highlighted the importance of federal research grants, stating, "Federal research grants are not handouts. Our researchers compete fiercely for these grants, proposing work that the government itself deems vital to the country’s health, safety, and economic future."

Frenk pointed out that UCLA has a history of significant contributions to technology and research, including early developments that led to the creation of the Internet. He stressed that the university's work is crucial for medical breakthroughs, economic advancement, and national security.

The National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health did not respond to requests for comment regarding the funding suspension. The situation comes amid broader scrutiny of universities by the federal government, particularly in the wake of student protests related to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

In recent weeks, other universities, including Columbia and Brown, have also faced similar pressures and have reached agreements with the federal government to restore funding after addressing allegations of antisemitism.