Target: Matthew J. Platkin, Attorney General of New Jersey
Professor Xiaobing Zhang, recently employed by Rutgers University, has been placed on leave after serious accusations of animal cruelty emerged from his previous position at Florida State University. These allegations, brought to light by whistleblowing graduate students and an animal rights group, claim that Zhang’s laboratory mistreated nearly 1,600 laboratory mice during surgical experiments. The allegations include failing to provide adequate pain relief, falsifying research records, and decapitating mice without proper sedation.
Florida State University conducted an investigation that suspended part of Zhang’s research project and a one-year prohibition from working in the lab for Zhang and two other employees. Despite these findings, Zhang began a new position at Rutgers, raising concerns about the vetting process for academic professionals involved in animal research.
The accusations against Zhang have triggered outrage among animal rights advocates. Michael A. Budkie, executive director of Stop Animal Exploitation NOW (SAEN), sent a letter to Rutgers urging the university to prevent Zhang from conducting further animal experiments in his new lab.
Animal cruelty in scientific research must not be tolerated, especially when funded by public money, as in Zhang’s case. Universities and research institutions must enforce strict ethical standards to protect animals used in scientific studies. Take action now.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin,
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the allegations of animal cruelty involving Rutgers University professor Xiaobing Zhang. These serious accusations, brought forward by whistleblowing students and an animal rights group, stem from Zhang’s previous research at Florida State University, where nearly 1,600 laboratory mice were reportedly subjected to mistreatment.
The accusations include denying animals adequate pain relief, falsifying research records, and euthanizing animals without proper sedation, in clear violation of ethical research practices. Despite these troubling allegations, Zhang began a new academic position at Rutgers, raising concerns about the university’s vetting process for professionals involved in animal research.
Animal cruelty in research must not be tolerated under any circumstances. I urge your office to launch a full investigation into these allegations and ensure that if any law violations occurred, the responsible individuals are held accountable. Furthermore, I request that strict oversight be implemented to prevent similar abuses from happening in New Jersey research facilities.
The welfare of animals used in scientific studies is paramount, and it is critical that universities and research institutions adhere to the highest ethical standards. Please ensure that justice is served and that this case fully addresses the alleged animal cruelty.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Anna Marchenkova
