University of Hong Kong paper contains AI-generated fabricated citations
A doctoral thesis published by University of Hong Kong researchers contained fabricated citations generated by artificial intelligence. The university confirmed the misconduct through investigation and removed the corresponding author from his senior role while subjecting the doctoral student to disciplinary procedures.
What happened
A doctoral thesis titled 'Forty years of fertility transition in Hong Kong' published in September in the journal China Population and Development Studies contained citations generated by artificial intelligence that do not exist.
The paper was co-authored by doctoral student Bai Yi Ming, Professor Yip Siu Fai of the School of Social Sciences (corresponding author), and others. The University of Hong Kong investigation confirmed that some citations in the paper were AI-generated fabricated references, and the doctoral student did not disclose this.
Index analysis
The university confirmed the core facts through investigation of allegations of improper citations.
Governance controls
The University of Hong Kong announced disciplinary measures including Yip Siu Fai's removal as Associate Dean of the School of Social Sciences and from research-related posts. The corresponding author has requested retraction from the journal, and the doctoral student must undergo disciplinary procedures.
The university stated it will strengthen training for all research staff on AI application norms, implement mandatory training and assessment, and maintain strict standards for research quality and integrity at the international level.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.