Fifty-four scientists have lost their jobs as a result of NIH probe into foreign ties | Science | AAAS

Fifty-four scientists have lost their jobs as a result of NIH probe into foreign ties | Science | AAAS

Dozens lose jobs amid NIH foreign ties probe

An ongoing investigation into US researchers’ undisclosed financial ties to overseas governments has so far resulted in 54 scientists being fired or resigning, according to new data from the US National Institutes of Health (NIH). The investigation began in 2018, and has led to criminal charges being brought against some prominent researchers. “It’s not what we had hoped, and it’s not a fun task,” said NIH director Francis Collins. He added that, of the violations NIH uncovered, about 70% of the researchers had failed to disclose the receipt of a foreign grant, and more than half had failed to disclose participation in a foreign talent programme.

Science | 4 min read