Jiangsu University of Science and Technology says it has fired Guo Wei over the accusations of academic misconduct

The chief scientist at a university that plays a major role in developing China’s navy has been detained as part of an investigation into alleged academic misconduct and misuse of state research funds, according to local media reports.

Jiangsu University of Science and Technology confirmed on Tuesday that Guo Wei’s case was under investigation and said his academic contract had been terminated over the accusations.

The university was founded in 1953 in response to Mao Zedong’s call for the development of a powerful navy and was the first technical institution specialising in shipbuilding in the People’s Republic of China.

Since its foundation it has produced many senior naval scientists and, according to the university, its alumni include the chief designer of the Shandong aircraft carrier.

The school of materials science and engineering, where Guo worked, has contributed to a number of major projects, including China’s first independently designed and integrated crewed submersible, the Jiaolong, as well as initiatives such as China’s lunar exploration programme.

Guo reportedly focused on cutting-edge materials research.