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Simons Foundation

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The worst experience in my life - Flatiron Research Fellow Simons Foundation Employee Review

1.0
Dec 15, 2024
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

On paper, this is a dream place: resources, people and network to support outstanding scientific work. In the center of Manhattan, they provide comfortable offices (and housing), free food, access to compute resources, a vibrant atmosphere of seminars and conferences with top profile scientists, apart from the possibility to collaborate with the many affiliated researchers.

Cons

I had issues with my boss, who was gaslightning me for not being able to work in her team because of my "non-American culture". Even though she acknowledged I had an outstanding performance and worked well with the rest of the team, she did not want me in her group (and suggested me a "non-American" supervisor). I did not even have a single scientific discussion with her. As a naive young scientist I reported the accident to the administration. Having issues or misunderstandings with your boss is something that can happen - but the way in which the management (President included) handled it is unimaginable. Here is what followed: - The HR first ignored for months my concern. Finally we had a discussion (which my boss did not even join) - While I was on holiday, I was fired at will without giving any motivation ("You complained about your working conditions and we believe it is better if you leave") - My visa has been immediately revoked and they took possession of all my belongings (they owned the place where I lived). They promised to ship them back to me but I haven't received my stuff after more than 3 months! - They immediately cut my access to the internal and compute infrastructure. I have lost all my documents, code, results achieved in one year of work and my work is not being acknowledged or published. As a scientist, this is extremely damaging. - They offered me about 5000 USD in exchange of my silence about this treatment, which I clearly rejected. Stay away from this place regardless of the compensation they offer - it can ruin your life. How can you forget this? I know at least three other people there who received a similar treatment.

Explore other reviews about Simons Foundation

5.0
Apr 21, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

- Amazing cross disciplinary research environment, applied machine learning research to natural sciences - Always surrounded the most talented people you will ever meet - Great GPU and compute resources - Free meals and a wonderful office!

Cons

None except that it was temporary (internship + guest researcher period)

5.0
Dec 8, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Fantastic organization that does great work. A wonderful place full of motivated, creative individuals who care about the mission.

Cons

No cons to report on as of yet.

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