The University of Michigan (UM) is facing pressure from U.S. lawmakers to end its Joint Institute with China’s Shanghai Jiao Tong University due to concerns about national security and potential espionage. Critics argue that the collaboration aids China’s military advancements, potentially jeopardizing U.S. interests.
Rep. John Moolenaar (R-MI), chair of the U.S. House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, expressed concerns in a letter to UM President Santa Ono. Moolenaar’s letter highlighted that the institute’s research has contributed to China’s defense programs, including advancements in nuclear technology, fighter jets, and other military capabilities. Moolenaar urged UM to end the partnership, citing potential risks to the security of federally funded research conducted on UM’s campus.
The partnership reportedly involves researchers from China’s People’s Liberation Army and is partially funded by U.S. taxpayer dollars and China’s 863 Program, which supports military technology development. According to Moolenaar, the collaboration serves as an example of “military-academic integration” that could pose a threat to U.S. security interests.
Concerns have also arisen around UM’s involvement with CATL, a Chinese battery technology company connected to China’s defense industry and reportedly associated with forced labor practices in Xinjiang. UM’s Joint Institute also hosts students from Shanghai Jiao Tong University who undergo military and ideological training, aligning with China’s national priorities.
Rep. Moolenaar’s letter follows an incident in 2023 in which five students from the Joint Institute were accused of spying at Michigan’s Camp Grayling military training base. Recently, a Chinese UM student unaffiliated with the Joint Institute was also charged with voter fraud, sparking additional concerns over foreign influence.
Moolenaar has called on UM to carefully evaluate international students on its campus, advocating for heightened security measures. As lawmakers continue to press for action, UM is expected to respond to these concerns regarding its partnership with the Chinese university.
