HKU professor steps down after probe finds AI-generated fake references in fertility study

The University of Hong Kong completed an investigation into a paper on fertility trends, confirming that a doctoral student included undeclared AI-generated fictitious references.

The corresponding author, Faculty of Social Science Professor Paul Yip Siu-fai, has resigned as associate dean and from research-related roles and applied to retract the paper from the journal China Population and Development Studies.

The involved doctoral student faces disciplinary proceedings under university rules.

HKU will introduce mandatory training and assessments on AI use guidelines for all researchers to uphold academic integrity.

The university reaffirmed its commitment to rigorous standards, ensuring research quality and ethics meet international levels to maintain excellence and public trust.