Nobel laureate Richard Axel resigns from Columbia University over his ties with Jeffrey Epstein

Richard Axel, a Nobel Prize-winning neuroscientist, has stepped down as co-director of Columbia University's Zuckerman Institute following revelations from Department of Justice files that detail an 11-year friendship with the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. The documents, released in 2026, shed light on the nature of Axel's connections to Epstein, who was infamously involved in numerous controversies and criminal activities. Although Axel has not faced any allegations of misconduct himself, the association with Epstein has prompted significant scrutiny. Axel's resignation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by institutions in managing reputational risks associated with their affiliates. This decision comes as part of a broader discourse on the ethical implications of professional relationships in academia, particularly in light of Epstein's notorious legacy. The Zuckerman Institute is renowned for its contributions to neuroscience, and Axel's departure could lead to shifts in leadership dynamics and research directions at the institute. The academic community is now reflecting on the importance of integrity and transparency in professional associations, especially in light of past affiliations that may impact public perception.