Professor Tao Li barred from U.S. funding over undisclosed Chinese ties

Professor Tao Li has been barred from receiving United States research funding following an investigation into his undisclosed ties to Chinese government programs. Between 2015 and 2017, Li served as a program officer at the National Science Foundation (NSF), where he oversaw the distribution of grants for computer science research, including hardware, software, and algorithms.

A report from the NSF’s Office of Inspector General revealed that Li participated in two Chinese talent plans during his tenure at the agency. While participation in such programs is not inherently illegal, the NSF requires full transparency regarding foreign affiliations and support. The investigation highlighted Li's failure to disclose these connections while managing American public funds.

Furthermore, documents indicate that Li was involved in awarding U.S. research grants to at least seven other scientists who allegedly failed to disclose their involvement in the ‘Dragon Star’ talent program. The FBI has previously warned that such programs can create risks regarding the misappropriation of foreign technology and intellectual property.