BMJ retracts Canadian study, blames MUN

BMJ, formerly the British Medical Journal, has retracted a study by Ranjit Kumar Chandra on the benefits of infant formula, as a result of “scientific misconduct.” The journal made the retraction after receiving a copy of an inquiry conducted in 1995 by Memorial University, Chandra’s former employer. The journal also cited a 2006 investigation by CBC, which accused Chandra of “scientific fraud and financial deception.” Richard Smith, then the journal’s editor, called MUN the “real villain of the piece,” saying “it should have taken this much more seriously.” MUN said that they understood the decision to retract the article, but defended their reputation. “We have progressed over the years. We have learned a great deal,” said MUN Vice President of Research Richard Marceau. CBC (Retraction) | CBC (MUN) | Globe and Mail | BMJ (Release) | BMJ (Editorial)

Postscript: MUN responds to BMJ retraction (Nov 2, 2015)

Memorial University has responded to the charges from BMJ that it withheld the results of an inquiry into research conducted by former professor Ranjit Kumar Chandra. “Memorial University has established a number of policies and procedures that ensure the highest standards of ethical conduct and scholarly integrity are understood and practiced,” said MUN’s VP (Research) Richard Marceau. He further expressed regret that MUN did not partner with BMJ in a “timely and effective response” to the concerns raised by the journal. MUN | Full Response