Satchin Panda Resigns from Salk Institute Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations

Indian-origin scientist Satchin Panda has resigned from California's prestigious Salk Institute after a female research assistant accused him of workplace sexual misconduct, bringing an end to his 22-year tenure at the renowned research centre. Panda’s last day at the La Jolla institute will be August 13, The San Diego Union-Tribune reported. The institute recently placed him on leave while it investigated the complaint filed by a woman who worked in his laboratory. The Salk Institute confirmed the complaint in a statement, saying: "In March of this year, a staff research assistant raised concerns about workplace misconduct through Salk's official reporting channels." Panda denied any wrongdoing. "I am deeply committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and professional environment for everyone in my research team and across the Institute. These values are central to my leadership," he said. During his time at the institute, Panda established himself as one of the world's leading researchers on circadian rhythms and intermittent fasting, also known as time-restricted eating. His work explored how the body's internal 24-hour clock affects health and disease, and it attracted millions of dollars in research funding to the institute. Researchers and health experts widely recognised Panda's studies on intermittent fasting, which helped shape scientific understanding of its potential health benefits. Panda's resignation marks the second high-profile exit linked to misconduct allegations at the Salk Institute in recent years. In 2018, Indian-origin biologist Inder Verma stepped down after multiple women accused him of sexual harassment. Eight women, including six affiliated with the institute, made allegations against Verma, which he denied.