Nobel Prize-winning Columbia neuroscientist resigns over Epstein ties
The Hill
by Lexi Lonas CochranFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A Nobel Prize-winning neuroscientist at Columbia University has resigned from some of his positions due to ties with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Richard Axel, co-director of the Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute and a 2004 Nobel laureate for his groundbreaking discovery of over 1,000 olfactory receptors in the nose, acknowledged that his past association with Epstein was a serious error. This resignation highlights the ongoing scrutiny surrounding individuals linked to Epstein's controversial past, particularly his alleged exploitation of vulnerable individuals for personal gain.
Axel’s ties to Epstein were revealed through financial records from Epstein’s 2019 trial, which showed that Axel had accepted funding from Epstein’s foundation. Although Axel stated he was unaware of Epstein’s criminal activities at the time, critics argue that such associations raise ethical concerns about potential conflicts of interest in academic research. This is not an isolated case—other prominent scientists have also been linked to Epstein’s network, sparking debates about transparency and accountability in scientific funding.
The broader implications of this resignation extend beyond academia into the realm of politics and public trust. Questions are now being raised about how universities vet donors and ensure that research remains free from unethical influences. As institutions grapple with these issues, the case of Richard Axel serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of ethical oversight in scientific endeavors.
Ultimately, this story underscores the need for greater scrutiny of private funding in academia and its potential impact on research integrity. For readers interested in politics and ethics, it highlights the delicate balance between scientific discovery and the sources of financial support that fuel such advancements.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/25/2026