Nobel winner quits Columbia U. brain institute
CNBC • • nation
Key Points:
- Dr. Richard Axel, a Nobel Prize-winning scientist, announced he is stepping down as co-director of Columbia University's Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute due to public scrutiny over his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
- Axel expressed deep regret and apologized for his past association with Epstein, describing it as a serious error in judgment and acknowledging the harm caused by Epstein's actions.
- Although Axel has not been accused of any wrongdoing, he was documented in emails and other DOJ-released materials showing continued contact with Epstein, including dining together years after Epstein's jail time.
- Columbia University stated it found no evidence Axel violated policies or laws but supported his decision to step down while recognizing his significant contributions to science and the university.
