Ohio State Pays $2.1 Million Over China Ties

Ohio State University has agreed to pay the U.S. Government $2.1 million over allegations it failed to disclose federally funded researchers' ties to China. The payment resolves claims that the university did not report these connections, according to a settlement finalized last week.

While not an admission of liability, the settlement addresses grants from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and the National Science Foundation awarded between November 2012 and August 2023. A 2011 federal law bans using such grant money for collaboration with China, including its universities.

The Alleged Disclosure Failures

The government's case centered on disclosure failures. Annual faculty reports submitted to Ohio State internally had identified some affiliations with Chinese universities and research organizations starting in 2014. Federal authorities allege the university did not pass this information to NASA or the NSF.

A key allegation involves researcher C. K. Shum. The government states Ohio State learned in 2019 that Shum, a principal investigator on a NASA-funded project, was part of China's Thousand Talents Program. This initiative recruits science and technology researchers from abroad. The university did not inform the federal agencies until 2023, according to the allegations.

Financial Settlement and Prior Repayment

The $2.1 million payment represents the remaining balance owed. In 2024, Ohio State had already repaid $254,661 of the grant money it received from NASA and the NSF.

Robert Steinau, a senior official at the NASA Office of Inspector General, framed the settlement as a national security victory. He said in a news release that they have secured a major financial recovery on behalf of the American public and will not tolerate institutions that conceal foreign ties.

University Response and Safeguards

In a statement, Ohio State spokesperson Chris Booker said the researcher involved is no longer employed at the university. He emphasized the institution's cooperation with federal authorities.

Booker stated that Ohio State takes national security seriously and has long been recognized for its efforts to promote research integrity and security. He outlined existing safeguards including dedicated compliance offices, mandatory disclosure systems, and extensive training programs on security and foreign influence.

The case highlights ongoing federal scrutiny of research partnerships between U.S. Universities and Chinese entities, particularly under the 2011 funding restriction law.