In an event that underscores the importance of collaboration and transparency, the Baker Institute for Public Policy at Rice University will host an influential panel on June 6. The forum will feature key figures from the FBI, including Jill Murphy, Deputy Assistant Director of Counterintelligence, alongside leaders from Houston's academic and Asian American communities. 

This timely event, titled "A Dialogue Between the Academic and Asian American Communities and the FBI," comes in the wake of ongoing concerns about the implementation of national science and technology policies, particularly in light of recent issues affecting Chinese graduate students and researchers. Despite the Department of Justice ending its China Initiative in 2022, challenges persist, highlighting the need for open communication and trust-building between federal agencies and the academic sector.

Addressing Critical Issues in Science and Technology Policy

The event will delve into the gaps between national policy and its on-the-ground execution, exploring potential avenues for creating a consistent dialogue channel between academic institutions, the Asian American community, and the FBI. This initiative aims to address and mitigate the concerns that have arisen post-China Initiative, which was originally designed to counter Chinese espionage and safeguard U.S. research security but faced criticism for alleged bias and its adverse effects on the scientific community.

Distinguished Panelists and Thought Leaders

The panel boasts a distinguished lineup of speakers, ensuring a comprehensive and multifaceted discussion:

Sergio Lira, Vice President at Texas Multicultural Advocacy Coalition

Paul Cherukuri, Vice President for Innovation at Rice University

Kelly Choi, Supervisory Special Agent at the FBI Houston Field Office

David Donatti, Senior Staff Attorney at the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas

Neal Lane, Senior Fellow of Science and Technology Policy at the Baker Institute

Jill Murphy, Deputy Assistant Director for Counterintelligence at the FBI

Gisela Perez Kusakawa, Executive Director of the Asian American Scholar Forum

Georgette Pickering, Assistant Special Agent in Charge at the FBI Houston Field Office

Gordon Quan, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Quan Law Group and former Houston City Council Member

Douglas Williams, Special Agent in Charge at the FBI Houston Field Office

Event Details

What: Baker Institute Event – A Dialogue Between the Academic and Asian American Communities and the FBI

When: Thursday, June 6, 4 – 6 p.m.

Where: Register for the livestream https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_I4Mk5B-pQf6Cb8Fg5MKnvg#/registration

 A Collaborative Effort

This event is co-sponsored by the Baker Institute Science and Technology Program, Rice University’s Office of Innovation, the APA Justice Task Force, and the Texas Multicultural Advocacy Coalition, with support from Rice University’s Office of Research.

As Houston continues to be a hub for innovation and multicultural integration, this dialogue represents a critical step towards fostering a cooperative environment where policy, academia, and community interests align. Join us for an insightful discussion that promises to shape the future of science and technology policy implementation in the United States.

For more info, visit news.rice.edu