Canadian Scientist Fired for Involvement in Gain-of-Function Research at Wuhan Lab, Where Canada Sent Virus Samples
Xiangguo Qiu, a scientist dismissed from Winnipeg’s high-security lab, was engaged in gain-of-function research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, as per a recently declassified intelligence document.
The document also reveals that Ms. Qiu was advised to keep her project with the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) hidden from her supervisors at the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) in Winnipeg, as the WIV had requested virus samples from the Canadian lab.
Compiled by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), the document forms part of a 600-page package concerning the firing of the two scientists that was eventually released after years of requests by MPs.
In March 2019, the Winnipeg lab sent 15 strains of Nipah and Ebola viruses to Wuhan. Ms. Qiu facilitated the request for the shipment. However, declassified documents indicated she also sent antibodies and other materials to China without prior approval.
Gain-of-function (GOF) research involves enhancing the lethality or transmissibility of pathogens, or both. Due to its risky nature, the use of GOF on lethal viruses is prohibited in many parts of the world.
Ms. Qiu and her husband, Keding Cheng, also a scientist at NML, were escorted out of the lab in July 2019 and terminated in January 2021 amid probes into their undisclosed collaborations with Chinese entities and the military.
Among the revelations in the documents are incidents where the two scientists allowed unescorted, restricted visitors in the Winnipeg lab and facilitated access to the NML’s secure network. Some visitors, specifically Chinese nationals, tried to remove material and download content onto personal devices.
