Purdue Research Projects Suspended Amid Serious Misconduct Claims

Allegations of misconduct at Purdue University have led to the suspension of multiple animal research projects, raising concerns about compliance with federal regulations. Complaints lodged in late 2025 detailed serious violations, including the failure to maintain aseptic conditions, inadequate use of personal protective equipment, and the administration of unapproved drugs on laboratory animals.

The allegations came to light through letters sent to the National Institute of Health (NIH), which were obtained by the animal rights organization Stop Animal Exploitation Now via a Freedom of Information Act request. The organization’s executive director, Michael Budkie, emphasized the critical nature of these claims, stating, “They were not following protocol… and the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee requires that the protocol is followed to the letter.”

The research project titled “Examination of behavioral and neural outcomes associated with drugs of abuse and neurodegenerative diseases” was suspended in October 2025 due to concerns about PPE usage, aseptic lab conditions, and improper suturing techniques. Following the suspension, university spokesperson Trevor Peters confirmed the incident but asserted that all procedures adhered to approved guidelines. He stated, “The matter was resolved promptly, and the protocol was reinstated without further concerns.”

Despite this resolution, further issues arose when another project, “High-throughput deep tissue in vivo imaging,” faced a permanent suspension in December 2025. This decision followed a unanimous vote by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) after it was revealed that a lab member had improperly housed laboratory mice and failed to euthanize a wounded mouse, disregarding veterinary instructions.

The lab member involved faced indefinite suspension after it was reported that they had moved the injured mouse to a laboratory and attempted to treat it themselves, applying surgical glue to its wound without consulting a veterinarian. These actions allegedly caused significant pain to the animal. Records associated with this project indicated potential falsification, as logs of animal health did not match facility access times.

Budkie noted that SAEN receives approximately 1,000 lab complaints annually, with between 50 and 100 warranting suspension, and fewer than ten involving document falsification. He expressed concern that if Purdue had not addressed these issues, it could have jeopardized the university’s accreditation from the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care.

The university’s response to the NIH indicated that the falsification of records is under investigation according to Purdue’s Ethics Policy III.A.2. If found guilty of research misconduct, individuals involved could face significant repercussions, including temporary or permanent bans from participating in federally funded research. “The Federal Office of Research Integrity, if they find someone guilty, can bar them from federally funded research,” Budkie explained.

Both projects are now under scrutiny, and all remaining staff members not facing suspension will undergo retraining on IACUC policies to ensure compliance moving forward. Budkie highlighted that for a university of Purdue’s size, the suspension of two major protocols within a single year is highly unusual.

Peters assured that Purdue University is dedicated to responsible research practices and the welfare of laboratory animals. He stated, “Purdue remains fully committed to maintaining complete compliance with all animal care and use regulations and to sustaining transparent, proactive communication with institutional oversight committees.”

As investigations continue, the university and the involved parties face a critical moment in ensuring ethical standards in research practices are upheld.