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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
Jul 13, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great location with lots of benefits. Great staff and working environment.

Cons

Not too many cons, I guess the pay isn't a lot but it's good for it being a nonprofit, and they make up for it with the amount of benefits we receive.

5.0
Jul 12, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Supportive environment. I especially appreciate the foundation’s focus on collaboration, intellectual curiosity, and long-term investment in ambitious ideas.

Cons

Can make the decision process even more transparent.

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