Criminal Charges Against Researchers Trigger Federal Investigation Into University of Michigan

University of Michigan Faces Scrutiny Over Undisclosed Foreign Funding and Biosecurity Risks

The University of Michigan is facing intensified federal scrutiny amid escalating concerns over national security risks linked to foreign influence in academic research. On 15 July, the U.S. Department of Education reportedly launched a formal investigation into the university’s foreign funding, following the indictment of two Chinese scientists affiliated with the institution. Both individuals were accused in separate incidents in June of attempting to smuggle biological materials into the United States, allegations that have raised broader questions about the university’s oversight of international research collaborations.

This investigation forms part of a wider federal initiative, introduced under former President Donald Trump, aimed at increasing transparency around foreign contributions to U.S. universities, particularly those involving China. According to Chief Investigative Counsel Paul Moore, the criminal charges were “highly disturbing”, and he criticised the university for historically minimising the risks associated with foreign influence. Similar inquiries have already been initiated at institutions such as Harvard, the University of Pennsylvania, and UC Berkeley.

In addition, the move reflects sustained pressure from Republican lawmakers, who have urged U.S. universities to sever research ties with Chinese institutions due to fears of intellectual property theft. In response to this political pressure, the University of Michigan reportedly terminated a partnership with a Shanghai-based university earlier this year. During a Fox News interview, host Maria Bartiromo referenced recent arrests of Chinese nationals accused of smuggling dangerous pathogens, while former President Trump speculated on whether these actions were state-driven or isolated incidents.

Following these developments, the Department of Education formally requested detailed financial records and information on the university’s foreign research collaborations, citing concerns over incomplete, inaccurate, and delayed disclosures. The investigation stems from two separate incidents: one involving a Chinese scientist and his girlfriend, both linked to a Michigan lab and accused of smuggling a toxic fungus into the U.S., and another involving a separate scientist charged with shipping biological materials to the university.

Although the University of Michigan responded by reviewing its research security protocols and publicly condemning any acts that threaten national security, the Education Department remained critical. It singled out Ann Chih Lin, Director of the university’s Centre for Chinese Studies, for publicly suggesting that the threat of technological theft from China had been overstated. Federal officials described her stance as troubling, especially considering the substantial reliance on U.S. taxpayer funding for the university’s research activities.

Under U.S. law, universities are required to disclose all foreign gifts and contracts valued at $250,000 or more. While enforcement of this regulation was historically lax, it gained momentum during the Trump administration. Although many investigations were closed under the Biden administration, the latest incidents have reignited calls for stricter oversight. Nevertheless, academic leaders have warned against creating a climate of undue suspicion toward Chinese scholars, noting that actual espionage cases remain relatively infrequent. Even so, a 2023 report by House Republicans allegedly revealed that hundreds of millions of dollars in federal research funding may have indirectly supported Chinese advancements in fields such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and nuclear weapons.

China continues to be the second-largest source of international students in the United States, following India. During the 2023–24 academic year, more than 270,000 Chinese students were reportedly enrolled in U.S. institutions, accounting for roughly a quarter of all foreign students in the country. The case underscores the growing tension between academic openness and national security, and highlights the urgent need for universities to strengthen oversight without undermining international academic engagement.

Editor’s Note:

The investigation into the University of Michigan highlights a growing concern in higher education: how to balance international research with national security. Two Chinese scientists linked to the university were recently charged with trying to bring dangerous biological materials into the United States. In response, the U.S. Department of Education opened a formal investigation, questioning whether the university had properly reported its foreign funding and partnerships.

According to Skoobuzz, this situation brings up key concerns. While global research partnerships are important, universities must take care to protect sensitive information and follow regulations. At the same time, it is essential to avoid unfairly targeting international students and researchers. The best way forward is through better oversight, clear reporting, and stronger security, while still maintaining an open and inclusive academic environment.