Nobel Laureate Dr Richard Axel Steps Down from Columbia University Role Over Epstein Association
Dr Richard Axel, the distinguished scientist who shared the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2004 with Dr Linda B Buck, has announced his resignation from his position at Columbia University. This decision follows the disclosure of his past connections with the convicted financier Jeffrey Epstein, as detailed in recently released documents.
Axel Apologizes for 'Serious Error of Judgment'
In a statement, Dr Axel expressed deep regret over his association with Epstein, describing it as a "serious error of judgment." He apologized to his friends, students, and colleagues, emphasizing the pain caused by Epstein's appalling conduct. "What has emerged about Epstein's appalling conduct, the harm that he has caused to so many people, makes my association with him all the more painful and inexcusable," Axel said.
Despite his resignation as co-director of the Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute, Axel confirmed that he will continue his research endeavors. Columbia University, in response, stated that it found no evidence of Dr Axel violating any university policies or laws but respected his decision to step down. The university has committed to continuing funding for members of the Axel lab to ensure the completion of their ongoing research projects.
Details of Axel's Relationship with Epstein Revealed
The Epstein files have shed light on the extent of Dr Axel's interactions with the financier. In a 2007 New York Magazine article, Axel praised Epstein as "extremely smart and probing," noting his unique ability to make connections that others could not. Axel provided insights into Epstein's cognitive style, mentioning that he had a short attention span but could grasp all necessary data within 15 minutes.
Further revelations include:
- Regular correspondence between Axel and Epstein over the years.
- An invitation for Axel and his wife to visit Epstein's private island, with flight tickets from 2011 documented.
- Their association persisted even after Epstein pleaded guilty to criminal charges and continued until just five months before Epstein's suicide in prison in 2019.
Columbia's Broader Epstein Connections
Dr Axel is not the first individual affiliated with Columbia University to be linked to Epstein. The College of Dental Medicine previously announced it had "taken action" against two Columbia officials who maintained relationships with Epstein. These officials solicited donations from him and assisted Karyna Shuliak, whom Epstein had referred to as his girlfriend, in gaining admission to the university in 2012 after an initial rejection.
This incident highlights the ongoing scrutiny of academic and institutional ties to controversial figures, prompting reflections on ethical standards and accountability within higher education.
