Background. Since March 2022, I have been subject to a series of relentless accusations from Jinbei “Walden” Li, a former graduate student at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) from 2015 to 2022, who also worked in my lab from 2017 to 2018. Li disseminated his accusations across multiple social platforms and also directly emailed them to numerous individuals and organizations. He did this extensively and repeatedly. Furthermore, Li filed multiple complaints with the University based on his accusations.
    I was deeply shocked and disturbed by Li’s behavior. Nevertheless, I took the allegations very seriously and cooperated fully with the University throughout its proceedings. During this period, I adhered to the University’s request to maintain complete confidentiality and, thus, was unable to offer my public response.

Conclusions. After a comprehensive review process, the University has now concluded all related proceedings. With permission, I am here to share the outcomes:
    The University has determined that none of my conduct violated the University’s policies or code of conduct. Additionally, the University has confirmed that there are no pending reviews, and thus, this matter is closed. In conclusion, all of Li’s complaints – not one, not two, but three in a row – have been found to be unsubstantiated. As a result, I have been fully cleared.

Damage. The past two years have been challenging for me. I have endured unfair attacks and significant damage to my reputation, character, and professional career. Over time, I have shouldered increasing misconceptions while I had to remain silent. My family has also suffered overwhelming distress throughout the process. Additionally, my lab members have been greatly impacted, facing unnecessary disruptions and setbacks in their research and career progression.

Stand. I fully support honest criticism and uphold the principles of free speech; however, I believe that deliberate attacks are not justified under these principles. It is troubling that Li publicly claimed, “nothing is made up” and “I (Li) stand by what I wrote in this letter with the honor of my name,” while repeatedly making a multitude of false and misleading allegations.
    I also firmly assert that cyber violence needs to be stopped. Li's extensive and repeated actions involved the wide dissemination of unfounded accusations on various social media platforms and direct emails to my colleagues, collaborators, funders, professional societies, magazines and more. These actions even prompted many total strangers to insult and threaten me and my family. As the one who has borne the brunt of these attacks, I am very grateful to those who did not believe the one-sided story and did not rush to judgment. While championing voices for rights and justice, I also encourage everyone to stand up and say no to those who launch and incite cyber harassment. 

Forward. I wish to express my gratitude to those who have supported me throughout this time. I also see this experience, while challenging, as an opportunity for personal growth and enhancement, as there is always room to be better. Moving forward, I remain fully committed to my role as a scholar, teacher, and mentor. I will continue to nurture and support the next generation of scientists and engineers and to pursue excellence in science. My dedication to contributing to the betterment of our society is stronger than ever.

For any questions about this statement, please contact my legal representative (Hinckley Allen law firm).

Ting Lu, UIUC
July 2024