A 32-year-old microbiology graduate student from China, Aili Wang, has been charged with poisoning a colleague’s tea. The incident involved a fellow student at the University of Wyoming who holds pending patents. Wang was apprehended on October 6, 2026, at Los Angeles International Airport, allegedly trying to leave the U.S.
Authorities alleged that Wang’s luggage contained laptops, electronic storage devices, and documents. Surveillance footage reportedly captured her rummaging through her colleague’s desk. This colleague specializes in technology for treating diseases, which is similar to Wang’s prior research in China.
Allegations and Evidence
Charges suggest Wang purchased acrylamide on eBay. The chemical was discovered by the colleague’s wife in the water from the office coffee maker used for brewing tea. Acrylamide is commonly known for its carcinogenic properties and can be toxic in large doses. It’s often used in microbiology to study proteins or DNA.
U.S. officials have raised concerns about China stealing intellectual property from American universities. The incident has left the students’ supervising professor, Mark Gomelsky, shocked and concerned for the victim’s recovery.
Surveillance and Findings
The victim, known as “K.T.” in court documents, began feeling unexplained symptoms, leading to a setup of surveillance cameras. Wang was observed on camera handling notebooks and rinsing the victim’s mug with a liquid from her own mug. The two students reportedly did not have a friendly relationship.
Legal Proceedings and Reactions
Wang, who reportedly failed her first dissertation attempt, was described as envious of her colleague’s success. She was working on her dissertation at the time of these events without engaging in lab work since June. Wyoming prosecutors requested an increase in Wang’s bond to $1.5 million after discovering more of her possessions related to the alleged crime.
The alleged victim has continued to struggle with symptoms attributed to acrylamide exposure, including fatigue and numbness. Although he went to a campus health clinic, he is still facing health challenges.
Similar Incident
This case mirrors a past incident in California where a chemical engineer was poisoned by a colleague with cadmium. The accused, David Xu, served probation following a plea deal. These events further stress the shocking reality of such acts within professional environments.
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