Salk Researcher Resigns After Sexual Misconduct Probe

Photo: Salk Institute

India-West News Desk

SAN DIEGO, CA – Scientist Satchidananda Panda will step down from the Salk Institute for Biological Studies on August 13 following an independent investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct, according to ‘Science’ magazine and several other media reports. Panda, who has denied the allegations, is ending a 22-year association with the institute.

Salk President Gerald Joyce informed faculty of Panda’s resignation in an internal email reviewed by ‘Science.’ The departure comes eight years after another high-profile Salk scientist, Inder Verma, resigned following an investigation into sexual harassment allegations, which he also denied.

Panda, an internationally recognized expert on circadian rhythms, light sensing and intermittent fasting, told colleagues in a separate message that he plans to write a book examining how advances in circadian biology could improve human health.

“I deny the allegations and accusations,” Panda said in a statement. “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.”

The investigation began after a research assistant in Panda’s laboratory raised workplace concerns earlier this year. Salk confirmed it commissioned an independent investigation after receiving the complaint.

Former graduate student Tiffany Chin, who left Panda’s lab in April, told ‘Science’ that the research assistant alleged Panda gave her massages in his office and became angry after she declined a foot massage, telling her she would never succeed in science. Chin said the assistant feared rejecting his behavior could jeopardize her job or a recommendation letter.

People familiar with the complaint also said that the assistant alleged Panda drank alcohol with her in his office and made sexually explicit remarks. Multiple sources said the assistant later took extended leave before resigning.

The magazine also reported that Salk had previously investigated Panda over another harassment allegation involving a former lab member who claimed Panda suggested they share a hotel room during a conference. A source familiar with the matter said the institute took disciplinary action at the time.