Hong Kong University (HKU), ranked 11th globally by QS, announced on 17/12 the findings of an investigation into a research paper. The university's disciplinary committee confirmed that a scientific article, co-authored by Professor Paul Yip and a student, included 20 fictitious references among its 61 cited sources, representing nearly one-third of the total.

Professor Paul Yip. Photo: SCMP

The issue surfaced last month when the online community and academics began questioning the authenticity of a study on fertility trends in Hong Kong over the past 40 years. This article was published in the Chinese Journal of Population and Development in mid-October. Professor Yip admitted to using artificial intelligence (AI) during the research process but failed to perform a final verification. This oversight led to the inclusion of "fictitious" AI-generated source material. He apologized for the oversight and resigned as Associate Dean of Social Sciences, also withdrawing from the university's research committees. The journal subsequently retracted the article.

"The university has taken appropriate disciplinary measures," an HKU statement affirmed. It further noted, "All research students and faculty must ensure their work meets international standards of professional ethics." This scandal has garnered significant attention within the research community due to Professor Paul Yip's considerable influence. He previously served as a government consultant in public health and education. Currently, he is a member of the Mental Health Advisory Committee under the Department of Health.

PhD student Bai Yiming, the paper's co-author, also faces strict disciplinary action. Bai is recognized as a prolific writer on public health and policy, with several prior publications in major newspapers. The incident at HKU serves as the latest wake-up call regarding the fine line between AI assistance and its misuse in high-level academic environments.

Doan Hung (According to The Standard, SCMP)