Comment from Cole Graham

[200.202(e), 200.220] To Whom it May Concern: I am an assistant professor of mathematics. I am writing in my personal capacity to oppose the proposed revisions to sections 200.202(e) and 200.220 that would restrict international scientific collaboration and isolate American scientists. A large fraction of my work is enabled and accelerated through collaboration with brilliant colleagues around the world. For example, I have an ongoing collaboration with two researchers in Hong Kong, which has produced quite surprising results on the mathematics underlying material phase boundaries, with a great deal more on the way. This research is driven by travel to Hong Kong, as face-to-face discussion remains by far the most effective form of mathematical collaboration. My NSF funding enables these visits. The proposed § 200.220 has the potential to terminate this funding and thus effectively end this productive collaboration.