The University of Rochester Board of Trustees is announcing that a special committee has been appointed to launch an independent investigation into the EEOC complaints against the university. Meanwhile, the professor who’s blamed for triggering the complaints has been placed on leave.
Professor Florian Jaeger will remain on leave pending the results of the investigation.
Chairman Danny Wegman said in a statement that “this is a matter of utmost importance to the entire University community.” Wegman said the panel will have freedom to conduct its own investigation and to access all information related to the cases.
President Joel Seligman issued his own statement saying he welcomes the investigation.
A group of female professors, current and former students have filed federal equal employment complaints against the university, complaining that Dr. Jaeger created a toxic environment in the Department of Brain Science. They accuse him of stalking, and of pressuring students to share drugs and have sex. They say the university botched its original investigation into their claims.