Dr. Charles Lieber, a former Harvard University scientist convicted in 2021 of concealing ties to a Chinese-run recruitment program, has rebuilt his brain-computer interface lab in Shenzhen, China. He now leads the Institute for Brain Research, Advanced Interfaces and Neurotechnologies (i-BRAIN), a key player in China's burgeoning brain-tech sector.
Lieber was convicted of six counts related to lying about a contract with Wuhan University of Technology, which paid him $50,000 monthly and over $150,000 in living expenses. He served two days in prison and six months on house arrest before relocating to China in April 2025.
During a Shenzhen government news conference in December, Lieber stated, "I arrived on April 28, 2025, with a dream and not much more, maybe a couple bags of clothes. Personally, my own goals are to make Shenzhen a world leader."
Experts argue Lieber's defection highlights ongoing concerns about Chinese technology theft. Glenn Gerstell, a former NSA general counsel, told Reuters, "China has weaponized against us our own openness and our own efforts for innovation."
The move underscores China's investment in cutting-edge technologies, with Lieber's lab likely receiving significant funding. His case has raised questions about U.S. efforts to mitigate intellectual property theft and the effectiveness of such measures.