Indian-origin scientist quits California’s Salk Institute amid sexual misconduct charge
Circadian rhythms researcher denies allegations; California-based institute says it launched an impartial probe after staff member reported workplace misconduct
Renowned Indian-origin scientist Satchidananda Panda, a globally-recognised expert on circadian rhythms and intermittent fasting, has reportedly resigned from the prestigious Salk Institute for Biological Studies in California following allegations of sexual misconduct by a former research assistant.
Panda, who has spent nearly 22 years at the La Jolla-based research institute, will formally step down on August 13, according to the journal Science. He had been placed on administrative leave while the institute investigated the complaint.
In a statement, the Salk Institute said that a staff research assistant raised concerns about workplace misconduct through its official reporting channels earlier this year.
"In March of this year, a staff research assistant raised concerns about workplace misconduct through Salk's official reporting channels. The Institute offered support and resources to the staff member and initiated a prompt, thorough, and impartial investigation," the institute said.
The identity of the complainant has not been disclosed. According to media reports, the woman later voluntarily left the institute.
Scientist denies allegations
Panda has strongly denied the allegations of sexual misconduct.
In an email cited by Science, he said he remained committed to maintaining a professional and respectful workplace.
"I am deeply committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and professional environment for everyone in my research team and across the institute. These values are central to my leadership," he reportedly wrote.
Also Read: Indian-origin businessman posed as CIA agent to secure Indonesia defence deals
According to Science, Panda has not been seen on the Salk campus for several weeks.
In a separate communication to colleagues and laboratory members, Panda said his resignation was motivated by plans to write a book on how recent advances in circadian rhythm research could transform human health.
"This is the right moment to pause, take fresh stock of these shifts, and redefine the goals for the next phase of my career," he reportedly said.
Leading researcher in circadian biology
Panda is widely regarded as one of the world's foremost researchers in circadian biology — the study of the body's internal 24-hour clock — and time-restricted eating, a form of intermittent fasting.
His laboratory has focused on understanding how biological rhythms influence metabolism, sleep and chronic diseases, with the aim of developing strategies to prevent and reverse lifestyle-related illnesses.
Also Read: Indian-origin woman confronts V-P Vance over US immigrants
His research has attracted millions of dollars in funding for the Salk Institute. Panda has authored two books on circadian health and is among the world's most highly-cited scientists, according to research analytics firm Clarivate. In 2023, he was elected a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).
Case revives scrutiny of institute
The case has also drawn comparisons with the institute's 2018 controversy involving prominent cancer biologist Inder Verma, who resigned after facing multiple allegations of sexual harassment, all of which he denied.
The Salk Institute has not disclosed further details about the ongoing investigation or whether any findings have been reached.