Cybersecurity Professor Faced China-Funding Inquiry Before Disappearing, Sources Say
The situation surrounding Xiaofeng Wang, a prominent data privacy professor at Indiana University, has escalated following inquiries regarding unreported research funding from China. As Wang and his wife have gone missing, the FBI has conducted searches at their residences in connection with these investigations.
Overview of Events
Indiana University began investigating Xiaofeng Wang regarding a grant from China that dates back to 2017-2018. Concerns were raised about his alleged failure to disclose this funding in university and federal grant applications. Reports indicate that while Wang had communicated about the funding with the university, the investigation was ongoing as of February.
The allegations were reportedly minor, pertaining to transparency over grant applications, yet they triggered serious institutional consequences, including Wang’s suspension and termination of employment.
Background on Research and Collaborations
Wang is a well-regarded researcher in data security and biometric privacy, having received funding from multiple prestigious US institutions and collaborations with China’s Institute of Information Engineering. His academic output details compliant funding disclosures from US sources despite collaborative projects with Chinese researchers, which are common and not necessarily indicative of wrongdoing.
Reaction and Legal Context
Wang’s attorney has confirmed that the couple is safe, with no pending criminal charges. Concerns have been raised about the adherence to due process during the termination of Wang’s employment, especially regarding the tenure policies of Indiana University.
Broader Implications
The investigation and sudden disappearance of Wang may reflect broader tensions regarding US-China relations in academic research. Critics of the previous China Initiative highlight fears that such investigations unjustly target researchers of Asian descent, raising alarms about the implications for academic freedom and collaboration.
Key Points
- Xiaofeng Wang is under investigation for alleged non-disclosure of Chinese research funding.
- The FBI raided his and his wife’s homes as part of the inquiry.
- Wang is a key figure in privacy and data security research, having founded a significant research centre at IU.
- Indiana University has been accused of not following due process in Wang’s termination.
- The case raises concerns about the targeting of Chinese-born researchers and possible chilling effects on research collaboration.
Why should I read this?
This article sheds light on significant issues regarding academic integrity, freedom of inquiry, and the implications of national security concerns on research collaboration. It highlights the precarious balance that educational institutions must maintain amidst evolving geopolitical tensions, which could impact the future of innovation and diversity in academia.
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