HOUSTON, Texas — A former researcher at the world-renowned MD Anderson Cancer Center was arrested for attempting to steal sensitive cancer research and transport it to China, Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare announced.
Yunhai Li, 35, a Chinese national, faces charges of theft of trade secrets and tampering with a government record after authorities found confidential medical records in his luggage during an inspection at Houston’s Bush Intercontinental Airport. The discovery was made through a coordinated effort between U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations.
Li had been working at MD Anderson since 2022 under a research scholar exchange visa. His work involved federally funded projects backed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Department of Defense (DoD).
“Houston is proudly home to some of the most groundbreaking medical institutions in the world – publicly funded centers that are saving lives each day thanks to their innovative research,” said District Attorney Teare. “We have zero tolerance for any attempts that hurt our nation and our community’s ability to pioneer critical medical breakthroughs.”
The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be filed as more evidence emerges.
If convicted, Li could face up to 11 years in prison for the theft and tampering charges.
“We will continue to work relentlessly to protect the integrity of these vital organizations to make sure they can continue to lead the world in advancing critical medical care,” Teare added.
