RIKEN scientist arrested

摘要

A Japanese researcher, well known for his work on 'supramolecules', was arrested last week for allegedly misappropriating research funds. The scientist, Tatsuo Wada, is based at the Advanced Science Institute in Wako, part of Japan's network of research labs known as RIKEN.rnThe case is an embarrassment for RIKEN, which has an annual budget of ¥100 billion (US$1 billion) and whose researchers are often looked at enviously for their generous funding. "We expect to get strong criticism for this," says Haruhiko Maekawa, director of RIKEN's general-affairs division. "We will have to show that our operations are sound." RIKEN president Ryoji Noyori says: "We will put in place thorough protective measures and redouble awareness of these matters throughout the institute so we can meet the public's expectations."