Purdue professor punished for research misconduct WEST LAFAYETTE, IN (wbaa) - A Purdue professor is losing some privileges after a committee has upheld research misconduct charges against him.

Nuclear Engineering Professor Rusi Taleyarkhan claims to have achieved nuclear fusion by blasting sound waves into bubbles, a practice known as sonofusion.

But his research came into question after scientists elsewhere were unable to duplicate the practice.

A Purdue investigation found Taleyarkhan falsified his research record by adding his student's name as a co-author, giving the impression the work was independently verified.

Sanctions announced by Provost Randy Woodson include Taleyarkhan losing his named professorship and the rights that come with it.

And over the next three years, he will not be allowed to serve as a major professor for graduate students. His record will be reviewed at the end of that time to determine if his status will change.

Taleyarkhan's attorney says they are not surprised by the university's actions, but his client maintains he did nothing wrong. © Copyright 2009, wbaa