ANN ARBOR—The following statement was issued Nov. 1 by University of Michigan Executive Vice President for Medical Affairs Gilbert S. Omenn and U-M Vice President for Research Fawwaz T. Ulaby:

“Last night and again this morning, WXYZ-TV in Detroit (Channel 7) aired a news broadcast that misrepresented the University of Michigan’s research laboratories and the safety of our research community.

“The station, which had aired a story months ago on Dr. James Baker’s research into a promising new way to counteract anthrax and other biohazards, sent a reporter to the U-M yesterday to see if she could enter Dr. Baker’s lab.

“Contrary to what she erroneously reported, there was no breach of security. She and her camera crew found Dr. Baker’s lab locked. While in the vicinity of Dr. Baker’s research area, she was correctly challenged by staff members, who were present at all times. The lab she did briefly enter was not Dr. Baker’s. No anthrax is used in that lab, Dr. Baker’s lab nor in any other she entered or attempted to enter. The reporter leaped to inaccurate conclusions about the safety of our research labs. The station has continued to air this story, despite being informed of its numerous and alarming inaccuracies.

“At the University we conduct a wide range of research, some of which involves small amounts of radioactive, chemical or biological hazardous materials. We take our responsibility to protect the safety of our faculty, staff, students and community very seriously. The University has a dedicated and specialized professional staff who monitor the storage of such materials and provide regular training for researchers in how to handle them safely.

“For obvious security reasons, we will not disclose details about our specific research materials and the security provisions we have in place. Following the events of September 11, we remain vigilant and alert.”

Information on U-M laboratory security

Gilbert S. OmennInformation on U-M laboratory security