U of A Dean of Medicine stepping down

Dr. Philip Baker, the Dean of Medicine at the University of Alberta is stepping down immediately.

University of Alberta President Indira Samarasekera made the announcement exactly one week after Dr. Baker was accused of plagiarism during a speech at a graduation banquet.

Friday marks the first day that the University has spoken publicly about the incident.

“On the request of the provost, and recognizing that it was in the best interests of all parties involved, Dr. Philip Baker is resigning as dean, and I have accepted his resignation,” Samarasekera said.

Students who attended the banquet last week say the speech given by Dr. Baker was similar to one given by Dr. Atul Gawande at Stanford University in 2010.

“It was never my intention to detract from the accomplishments of the graduating class of 2011,” said Baker. “My hope is that the university and the faculty will be able to put this unfortunate incident behind them, and that this will bring closure for the university, the Faculty and my family.”

Baker will retain a faculty position with the university.

Dr. Verna Yiu, who is currently vice-dean of faculty affairs for the department will take over as interim Dean of Medicine while the search for a new dean is conducted.

The investigation into the plagiarism allegations continues.