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Editorial | US university that sacked scientists needs diversity, not politics
- Let the example of Qian Xuesen, father of China’s space programme who was deported from America, serve as an example to those places of learning that target Chinese researchers and students
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American universities shunning Chinese researchers and students have lost sight of their meaning and purpose. Like their counterparts elsewhere, their goals are the discovery, pursuit and dissemination of knowledge. There should be no cultural, societal or political boundaries; scholars thrive on academic freedom and diversity.
The sacking of a biologist and his wife, closure of their laboratory and the withdrawal of visas of four postdoctoral students working with them therefore makes no sense.
Li Xiaojiang, who had worked at Emory University in Atlanta for more than 20 years and like his wife, Li Shihua, is a US citizen, claims he has not been given a detailed reason for the decision. The private college said the two professors failed to “fully disclose” overseas sources of research funding and professional ties to China, an accusation that has been rejected.
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In the climate of mistrust, rivalry and competition that the administration of US President Donald Trump has created against Chinese trade, science and technology, there is little chance of a fair hearing to prove innocence. For more than a year, the United States has been withdrawing and denying visas for Chinese working or studying in disciplines determined to be sensitive.
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Yale University president Peter Salovey voiced his concern in an open letter to the respected institution’s 5,500 international students and academics, urging federal agencies to clarify their positions.
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