Epstein Files Reveal Connections to Cornell Cancer Research
Newly released documents from the Department of Justice’s Epstein Library demonstrate that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein engaged with a Weill Cornell professor, Francis Barany, regarding potential funding for cancer research in 2011. The interactions, revealed in emails, occurred after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for child prostitution and continued with attempts to secure funding for Ebola research in 2014.
A Meeting Facilitated by Epstein’s Network
Professor Barany’s connection to Epstein was brokered by Anthony Barrett of Ossa Properties, a real estate firm managed by Epstein’s brother, Mark Epstein. Barrett repeatedly sought to connect Epstein with Barany, even after Epstein expressed a dismissive attitude towards companies “run by scientists.” Emails show Barrett actively worked to arrange a meeting, ultimately succeeding in October 2011, with assistance from Epstein’s planner, Lesley Groff.
Initial Interest and Subsequent Funding Attempts
In 2009, Barrett initially asked Epstein to review documents related to Coferon Inc., later renamed BlinkBio, a biotechnology venture founded by Barany. Epstein’s response was lukewarm, stating the company was “run by scientists, not a good sign.” Despite this initial assessment, a meeting was arranged, and in 2014, Barany and a colleague, Linnie Golightly, approached Epstein’s associates seeking funding for Ebola research. Barrett forwarded their request to Epstein, noting Barany was “not a ‘people’ person.” Epstein responded with a brief, “ill strive.”
Cornell’s Response and Lack of Direct Funding
When questioned by The Cornell Sun, a University spokesperson stated that, to the best of Professor Barany’s recollection, the interaction with Epstein involved a single presentation of a cancer mutation detection concept to potential funders. The spokesperson also confirmed that Cornell records show no direct funding from Epstein or his foundation. Though, the University stated it “take[s] this issue seriously and will continue our assessment.”
Epstein’s Broader Funding of Scientific Research
The released files indicate Epstein had begun funding scientific research through charities, including the Jeffrey Epstein VI Foundation. Joi Ito, a venture capitalist, inquired with Epstein in 2014 about whether his foundation funded institutions like Harvard or MIT. Epstein’s response included a cryptic reference to “hasty pudding” and mentioned Harvard, Cornell, and Mount Sinai.
The Role of Intermediaries
The emails reveal a network of individuals facilitating Epstein’s interactions, including Henry Jarecki, a psychiatrist and philanthropist. Barrett suggested forwarding Barany’s information to Jarecki. The files do not detail the extent of Jarecki’s involvement, and contact information for several key individuals – Groff, Nikolic, Barrett, and Jarecki – remains unavailable.
What Does This Mean for Scientific Funding?
The revelations raise questions about the ethical considerations surrounding funding from individuals with controversial pasts. Although there’s no evidence Epstein directly funded Barany’s research, the attempts to secure funding, and the involvement of his associates, highlight the potential for compromised ethical boundaries in the pursuit of scientific advancement.
Pro Tip:
Researchers should carefully vet potential funding sources and consider the ethical implications of accepting funds from individuals or organizations with questionable backgrounds.
FAQ
Q: Did Jeffrey Epstein fund Professor Barany’s research?
A: There is no evidence in the released files that Epstein or his foundation directly funded Professor Barany’s research.
Q: What role did Anthony Barrett play in connecting Epstein and Barany?
A: Barrett actively facilitated communication between Epstein and Barany, arranging a meeting and forwarding funding requests.
Q: Has Cornell University investigated this matter further?
A: Cornell University has reviewed its records and found no evidence of funding from Epstein or his foundation, but stated it will continue its assessment.
Q: What was Epstein’s initial impression of Coferon Inc.?
A: Epstein expressed skepticism about Coferon, stating it was “run by scientists, not a good sign.”
Q: Where can I find more information about the Epstein files?
A: The Department of Justice’s Epstein Library is available at https://www.justice.gov/epstein.
Explore more coverage of the Epstein case and its ongoing implications here.
