An investigation has discovered that the physicist who claimed to have developed one of many first room-temperature superconductors engaged in “research misconduct,” as first reported by The Wall Avenue Journal. Ranga Dias, a researcher and assistant professor on the College of Rochester, has been beneath investigation by a committee of outdoor specialists since final August over issues concerning the accuracy of his findings.
“The University has completed a thorough investigation conducted by a panel of scientists external to the University who have expertise in the field,” College of Rochester spokesperson Sara Miller says in an announcement to The Verge. “The committee concluded, in accordance with University policy and federal regulations, that Dias engaged in research misconduct.”
Final yr, Dias co-authored a analysis paper in Nature highlighting a nitrogen-doped lutetium hydride. The paper claimed the fabric might conduct electrical energy at ambient temperatures with out resistance. (If that sounds acquainted that’s since you’re pondering of the supposed LK-99 superconductor that went viral on social media final yr.) Scientists later discovered inconsistencies in Dias’ analysis.
This paper, together with a few of Dias’ different work, has been retracted. The committee “identified data reliability concerns in those papers” Miller says. “The University of Rochester is committed to academic integrity.”
Earlier than this current probe, the college opened two inquiries into Dias’ analysis, however it determined towards opening a full investigation. As famous by the Journal, the college might additionally determine to take personnel motion towards Dias as a subsequent step, which is dealt with by the establishment’s provost.
Replace March twentieth, 5:56PM ET: Added an announcement from a College of Rochester spokesperson.
Correction March twentieth, 5:35PM ET: A earlier model of the article incorrectly acknowledged Dias’ analysis pertained to LK-99 when it was a nitrogen-doped lutetium hydride. We remorse the error.