Posted on 04/08/2025 10:55:23 AM PDT by simpson96
Indiana University has faced criticism after abruptly firing Professor XiaoFeng Wang on the same day FBI agents executed search warrants at his home. The university also removed the couple’s online profiles, causing concern among academics regarding their due process. Federal authorities have confirmed the investigation is ongoing.
Wang has brought approximately $23 million in federal grants to the university. However, Wang was barred from his office and denied access to university resources prior to his dismissal.
Veracity IIR president Doug Kouns said, “He’s right there on the cutting edge of this kind of research as far as data privacy, cybersecurity and that kind of thing, a lot of dollars in federal research grants.”
Kouns added, “Probably involved in some national security type projects which obviously brings to concern the espionage factor. Is this information, this research that’s going on here at IU or in Indiana, making its way toward somebody who shouldn’t have it?”
The notice of termination allegedly did not provide a reason, and Indiana University has refrained from providing information on the matter, citing FBI instructions. “At the direction of the FBI, Indiana University will not make any public comments regarding this investigation,” Indiana University spokesman Mark Bode said.
Bode added, “In accordance with Indiana University practices, Indiana University will also not make any public comments regarding the status of this individual.”
(Excerpt) Read more at msn.com ...
I never had an employment contract. But, in those cases the contract would surely specify separation procedures and requirements.
Wang dang doodle, arr night rong.
Is there a “gradual firing”?
In most universities, including private ones, there is a faculty union of sorts that has an agreement with the institution that sets general provisions of employment. Serious criminal misconduct though involving academic work and implicating national security and immigration status would be an exception that permits summary firing.
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