Academics in Epstein Files Admit Pursuing Research Funding Through Friendship
A significant new collection of documents released by the Justice Department has unveiled that Jeffrey Epstein's influence within academic circles was far more extensive than previously understood. The files detail how numerous high-profile professors, including Nobel laureates and college presidents, maintained connections with Epstein for years, even following his conviction for sex crimes. Many now cite Epstein's substantial wealth as their primary motivation.
Professors Describe Epstein as a Source of Crucial Private Funding
The documents reveal Epstein maintained close ties with dozens of researchers who exchanged friendly emails while relying on him to finance their projects. Some academics sent gifts and visited Epstein in New York and Florida, with several offering sympathy as he navigated the fallout from his criminal activities. New scrutiny is now focusing on these academics, with at least one scholar resigning and Yale University removing another from teaching duties pending a conduct review.
When questioned about these long-standing relationships, many professors have provided a consistent explanation: Epstein possessed financial resources they desperately needed. In the highly competitive realm of research funding, academics depend not only on federal grants but also on private donations from affluent benefactors, which they must often secure independently. Such funding is essential for job security, supporting graduate students, and advancing their research. To some, Epstein appeared as a willing donor with a genuine interest in scientific endeavors.
Neurologist Describes Epstein Courtship as 'Standard Operating Procedure'
Dr. Mark Tramo, a neurologist at the University of California, Los Angeles, stated that his association with Epstein was always centered on soliciting donations. Records indicate Tramo exchanged numerous emails and calls with Epstein over more than a decade, discussing topics far beyond professional matters. He sent occasional gifts and provided medical advice for Epstein's back pain.
As Epstein's jail term neared its end in 2009, Tramo emailed: "Only 13 days to go, buddy!!!!! — where and when’s the party?" He later proposed meetings in Florida or New York and offered to assist "in any way" as Epstein worked to rehabilitate his public image.
Tramo told The Associated Press he was unaware until years later that Epstein's crimes involved underage girls and now regrets the relationship. Nevertheless, he characterized his actions as "standard operating procedure" when engaging with a potential donor. "It’s human nature that philanthropists expect at least a modicum of congeniality from fundraisers and beneficiaries of their largess," he explained via email. UCLA officials did not respond to requests for comment.
Tramo estimates receiving approximately $200,000 from Epstein to support his research on the link between music and the brain. He noted that Epstein's funds became increasingly attractive as federal funding grew more difficult to obtain, particularly for innovative, high-risk projects.
Private Money Offered a Shortcut to Research Funding
Leslie Lenkowsky, a philanthropy scholar at Indiana University, emphasized that these revelations highlight the appeal of private funding in academic research. Epstein provided a direct route to financial support, bypassing the extensive scrutiny and bureaucratic hurdles associated with federal grants. Additionally, Epstein offered access to a sphere of wealth and influence, associating with famous figures that enhanced his allure.
"It blinded people," Lenkowsky observed. "They saw the money coming, they felt that the risks were minimal, and so they went after it."
Epstein Cultivated Scholars Across Multiple Institutions
The newly released emails expose a deeper relationship than previously known between Epstein and Leon Botstein, president of Bard College in New York. The two met on several occasions, with Epstein sometimes arriving by helicopter at the small private college. Botstein invited Epstein to attend the 2013 graduation ceremonies and later suggested meeting for an opera performance.
In 2018, shortly after The Miami Herald published new details on Epstein's criminal prosecution, Botstein reached out: "I want you to know that I hope you are holding up as well as can be expected." In at least two emails, Botstein referred to his "friendship" with Epstein. Botstein now denies any personal connection, stating in a campus letter: "Mr. Epstein was not my friend; he was a prospective donor."
Epstein directed $150,000 to Botstein in 2016, which the president claims he donated to the college. Epstein later hinted at a larger contribution that never materialized, according to David Wade, a spokesperson for Botstein. "The only reason President Botstein ever communicated with Jeffrey Epstein was in the work of fundraising for the College," Wade affirmed.
Epstein frequently presented himself as a patron of the sciences, with some academic ties already documented. He contributed over $9 million to Harvard University, primarily funding a research facility established by math and biology professor Martin Nowak. Harvard sanctioned Nowak in 2021 after revelations that Epstein had his own office in the building and made regular visits.
During Epstein's trips to Harvard, records show he scheduled meetings with prominent academics who sometimes became close friends. He occasionally met with former U.S. Treasury secretary and Harvard president Larry Summers, as well as linguist and activist Noam Chomsky.
The emails illustrate how Epstein developed a network of scientists, requesting introductions to other respected researchers. In other instances, academics proactively contacted him, seeking financial backing for their projects. The files include such correspondence from professors at the University of Texas, the University of Tennessee, Indiana University, and other institutions.
Yale Professors Face Scrutiny Over Epstein Connections
Two Yale University professors were newly identified as having ties to Epstein. Computer science professor David Gelernter has been removed from teaching while the university reviews his conduct. Gelernter's emails with Epstein include a 2011 message recommending a Yale senior for a job, describing her as a "v small good-looking blonde."
Additional files reveal that Dr. Nicholas Christakis, a Yale sociologist and physician, met with Epstein in 2013 and exchanged emails with him. Christakis informed the AP that the meeting aimed to raise funds for his laboratory, though Epstein never provided support. He expressed horror upon learning of Epstein's crimes later. "Any funds I raise are administered by Yale University, and the Yale development office was aware of and supported my meeting with Mr. Epstein," Christakis stated via email. Yale officials declined to comment.
Other documents disclose Epstein's friendship with David Ross, a museum curator who resigned from his position at the School of Visual Arts in New York this month. Some emails seemed intended to console Epstein during public controversies. "It is depressing to see how you are once again being dragged through the mud," Ross wrote in 2015. "I’m still proud to call you a friend."
The Associated Press' education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. AP's standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters, and funded coverage areas are available at AP.org.
