Transparent research
The detention of a scientist of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), who was in line for a senior position in the academy, for suspected embezzlement of research funds raises the question of transparency once again.
Even after an increasing number of central government departments and local governments have started disclosing their expenses for officials' overseas trips, public receptions and purchase and maintenance of cars, the use of scientific research funds is wrapped in mystery.
The scientist, Duan Zhenhao, was detained after online postings indicated he could be misappropriating research funds to pay "his mistresses" and carry on an affair with a student. That he is said to have reimbursed traveling expenses that had nothing to do with his research indicate that the online postings are not a joke.
