Newly released U.S. Department of Justice documents reveal Jeffrey Epstein's scientific network extended far beyond previous estimates, with the convicted sex offender maintaining unprecedented influence over research projects and academic institutions, according to a Nature investigation published this week.
The report details how Epstein invested millions in scientific initiatives while cultivating relationships with nearly 30 prominent researchers. Despite his 2008 conviction for soliciting prostitution from a minor, multiple scientists continued collaborating with the financier, including accepting substantial donations and seeking advice on sensitive matters.
Among key findings: Epstein provided crisis management guidance to theoretical physicist Lawrence Krauss during sexual misconduct allegations, funded Harvard's Program for Evolutionary Dynamics with $6.5 million, and received early access to groundbreaking research papers. Virologist Nathan Wolfe reportedly proposed a controversial 2013 study on student sexual behavior funded by Epstein.
Harvard mathematician Martin Nowak emerges as a central figure, with emails showing Epstein actively shaped research directions at Nowak's institute until its 2021 closure. Princeton professor Corina Tarnita maintained contact with Epstein shortly after his conviction, seeking visa assistance and sending birthday greetings.
While none of the researchers face criminal allegations, the disclosures have ignited ethical debates. "This level of funder involvement in actual research is unheard of," said UC Santa Cruz mathematician Jesse Kass, calling for systemic reforms in academic-private partnerships.
The revelations come from over 3 million documents released since January 30 under the Epstein Transparency Act, marking the largest disclosure to date about the financier's operations.
