China’s higher education and research community has been shaken by a series of disciplinary actions against prominent scientists following investigations into academic misconduct. Tongji University, Nankai University, and Sun Yat-sen University have all taken formal measures after allegations were publicly raised by a whistleblower known as “Geng Tongxue” (耿同学), highlighting the growing scrutiny of research integrity in the country.
These cases are particularly notable because the corresponding authors involved—Professor Wang of Tongji University, Professor Chen of Nankai University, and Professor Kuang of Sun Yat-sen University—are all recipients of the prestigious National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars. These awards are among China’s most competitive scientific honors, recognizing researchers with exceptional achievements, leadership potential, and national influence in their fields.
Tongji University removes dean after Nature paper review
In May 2026, Tongji University concluded an investigation into a paper published in Nature, titled Human HDAC6 senses valine abundance to regulate DNA damage. The university found multiple figures contained problematic data handling and presentation issues. Several experimental results were not objectively quantified, and some images were duplicated or improperly used.
As a result, the corresponding author, Professor Wang, was removed from his position as dean of the School of Life Science and Technology, downgraded in professional rank, and suspended from promotions, research funding applications, and academic awards for 24 months. The first author, researcher Jin Jiali, had her contract with the university terminated. Tongji University emphasized that the case would serve as a warning and announced plans to strengthen research ethics oversight and integrity monitoring.
Nankai University dismisses postdoctoral researcher and sanctions dean
On May 30, Nankai University disclosed the outcome of an investigation into a paper published in Nature Cancer, Targeted activation of ferroptosis in colorectal cancer via LGR4 targeting overcomes acquired drug resistance. Investigators found that data for 14 figures had been inaccurately quantified or misused, constituting academic misconduct.
The postdoctoral first author was dismissed. Professor Chen, the corresponding author and dean of the College of Life Sciences, was removed from his administrative role, downgraded in rank, and barred from promotions, funding applications, and awards for 24 months. Another corresponding author, Professor Hu, received a formal reprimand for inadequate supervision.
Sun Yat-sen University sanctions faculty and graduate students
Sun Yat-sen University also announced disciplinary measures on May 30 following investigations into papers involving Professors Kang and Kuang and their collaborators. The university found evidence of academic misconduct and deficiencies in research rigor.
Professor Kang was removed from his leadership roles at a national key laboratory and cancer research center, downgraded in rank, suspended from promotions and project applications for 12 months, and barred from recruiting graduate students. Professor Kuang, vice dean of the School of Life Sciences, was similarly removed, downgraded, and suspended from graduate recruitment for 24 months. Several first authors were either downgraded or had their degrees postponed. Corrections or retractions were ordered for affected publications.
Who is Geng Tongxue?
All three cases were triggered by public allegations made by the online whistleblower “Geng Tongxue” (耿同学). Over the past several years, Geng has become known for meticulously reviewing published scientific papers for potential irregularities, including image duplication, data inconsistencies, and questionable statistical results. Operating primarily through social media and academic discussion platforms, Geng has highlighted papers in top international journals, including Nature, Science, and Cell, often prompting formal institutional investigations.
While some critics caution that public allegations may cause reputational harm before investigations conclude, supporters argue that independent scrutiny enhances transparency and accountability in scientific research. The disciplinary actions taken by these universities suggest that external oversight, even from independent whistleblowers, is increasingly influential in ensuring research integrity in China.
Implications for Chinese research governance
The involvement of multiple distinguished young scholars has intensified discussion within the scientific community because these scholars are considered national research leaders with significant influence over graduate training, faculty recruitment, and high-impact projects. The cases underscore the responsibility of senior researchers and corresponding authors to ensure data authenticity, rigorous supervision, and adherence to ethical standards.
As Chinese universities expand their global research presence, the recent disciplinary measures signal a growing willingness to publicly address misconduct, even when it involves internationally recognized scientists. These cases are likely to remain reference points in ongoing debates about transparency, accountability, and the balance between institutional reputation and research integrity in Chinese higher education.
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