Neuralink, the brain-computer interface company founded by Elon Musk, has secured an additional $43 million in venture capital, bringing its total funding to over $323 million. This latest round of funding comes as the company faces increasing scrutiny over its workplace culture and animal testing practices.
Workplace Culture Concerns
Former Neuralink employees have raised concerns about a "culture of blame and fear" at the company, alleging that Musk frequently undermines management and encourages junior employees to report directly to him. These allegations have led to a significant turnover among the company's founding scientists.
Animal Testing Controversy
Neuralink has also been criticized for its treatment of animals used in its research. The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) has alleged that the company subjected monkeys to psychological distress and chronic infections due to surgeries. Additionally, reports have suggested that Neuralink rushed its animal testing due to Musk's demands for fast results, leading to complications.
Federal Investigation and SEC Inquiry
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) conducted an investigation into Neuralink's animal welfare practices but found no evidence of violations beyond a previously self-reported incident from 2019. However, the PCRM has disputed the results of the investigation.
More recently, U.S. lawmakers have requested that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) investigate Neuralink for omitting details about the deaths of at least a dozen animals in its animal testing.
Neuralink's Response
Neuralink has denied the allegations of animal mistreatment and workplace toxicity. The company has also emphasized its commitment to developing safe and effective brain-computer interface technology.
Despite the controversy, Neuralink continues to make progress in its research and development. The company has received FDA approval for human clinical trials and has opened up its first human trials for recruitment.
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