Northwest University in Shaanxi province, China, has just announced a decision to terminate the contract, revoke the title of associate professor and revoke the teaching title of lecturer Jia Qianqian due to violations and plagiarism in scientific research works, Xinhua News Agency reported.
Previously, Northwestern University immediately launched an investigation after allegations emerged in cyberspace about academic hidden corners in Jia Qianqian's works.
The investigating council determined that Ms. Jia Qianqian had published 16 scientific articles as the main author. Among them, up to 9 articles contained many overlapping paragraphs and sentences from other people's research without valid sources, and one case of self-plagiarism (overlapping publication).
Before making the final conclusion and accepting the resignation letter of lecturer Jia Qianqian, Northwestern University collected independent professional assessments from third parties, invited scholars outside the school to conduct closed-door rebuttals, and listened to direct explanations from Ms. Jia Qianqian.
After the above scandal, Northwestern University said it will implement comprehensive training courses on academic integrity, and at the same time tighten the supervision of the teaching staff to maintain strict standards and build a healthy educational environment.
