Martin Nowak
Martin Nowak is a mathematical biologist at Harvard University who directs the Program for Evolutionary Dynamics (PED). His research focuses on mathematical modeling of evolution, cooperation, and cancer dynamics.
The Epstein-Nowak Relationship
Nowak was the primary beneficiary of Epstein’s Harvard donations. Through the PED, Epstein channeled approximately .5 million to Harvard over multiple years. The donations gave Epstein a legitimate academic association and the ability to say he was funding cutting-edge evolutionary research at Harvard.
After the 2008 Conviction
Critically, Harvard accepted Epstein donations and Nowak maintained the relationship after the 2008 guilty plea. This was one of the key failures examined in Harvard’s subsequent accountability review.
Harvard’s Investigation
In 2020, Harvard launched a formal review of its relationship with Epstein. The review found that the university had failed to adequately assess the appropriateness of accepting his donations. Harvard kept donations it had already spent but acknowledged the failures.
Nowak’s Position
Nowak has continued at Harvard following the controversy. The PED continues to operate with other funding sources.