Stanford President to resign after investigation into research manipulation

STANFORD — Stanford University President Marc Tessier-Lavigne announced Wednesday he is resigning Aug. 31 after an investigation commissioned by the school’s Board of Trustees found “manipulation of research data” in several academic papers of which he was the principal author.

The report concluded that Tessier-Lavigne did not personally engage in any fraud or misconduct himself. However, according to a statement from the Board, the report found that in 5 of the 12 scientific papers in question lab members overseen by Tessier-Lavigne either manipulated data or “engaged in deficient scientific practices, resulting in significant slaws in those papers.” Investigators also determined that Tessier-Lavigne did not do enough to correct the mistakes.

Tessier-Lavigne released a statement Wednesday saying that while he feels “gratified” the report did not find him liable for any fraud or misconduct, he believes stepping down is the best course of action.

“[Stanford] needs a president whose leadership is not hampered by such discussions,” said in the statement. “This decision is rooted in my respect for the University and its community and my unwavering commitment to doing what I believe is in the best interests of Stanford.”

Tessier-Lavigne will remain on the Stanford faculty as a tenured biology professor.

The Board has named European Studies Professor Richard Saller the interim president, effective Sept. 1.

This is a developing story. It will be updated.