Alice C. Chang, False Claims, Indiana 2020

Alice C. Chang, formerly an Associate Professor of Basic Medical Sciences at Purdue University, falsified and fabricated data in multiple grant applications submitted to the National Institutes of Health and Department of the Army. Between February 2014 and June 2020, Chang included false information in two published papers and 17 grant applications, causing the university to receive $737,391 in funding that it did not deserve.

The university cooperated with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services after receiving evidence calling into question the authenticity of the research. Purdue University thoroughly investigated the allegations and agreed with the federal government that the funding was not deserved and should be returned.

“Academic integrity is the cornerstone of scientific research, and we take our commitment to protect U.S.-funded research grants seriously,” said U.S. Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. “Failure to be truthful on an application for U.S.-funded grants is a violation of the law and my office will continue to make it a priority to pursue cases to recover grant funds awarded through fraud.”

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Research Integrity has entered into a Voluntary Exclusion Agreement with Dr. Chang, banning her from any contracting or subcontracting with any agency of the United States for ten years. As part of this agreement, she will also request that her published papers be corrected.

The settlement was reached as a result of an investigation by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana with assistance from the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. The case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Dirk D. De Lor.

In total, Purdue University will pay the government $737,391 to resolve allegations under the False Claims Act, which includes restitution and punitive damages. This settlement serves as a reminder of the importance of academic integrity in scientific research and the consequences of falsifying information to obtain funding.

Purdue University has taken steps to address the issue and ensure that its research practices are transparent and honest. The university’s commitment to academic integrity is commendable, and it demonstrates a willingness to take responsibility for the actions of its employees.

Defendant: Alice C. Chang

Criminal Charges: False Claims to the National Institutes of Health and Department of the Army

City and State: West Lafayette, Indiana

Exact Date: Between February 2014 and June 2020

Sentence or Outcome: Purdue University will pay the government $737,391 in restitution and punitive damages

Dollar Amounts: $737,391

Defendant’s Status: Banned from contracting or subcontracting with any agency of the United States for ten years

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndin/pr/settlement-purdue-university-false-claims-research-grant-applications-federal-agencies