Sweden’s prestigious Karolinska Institute has dismissed its dean of research for allegedly exerting “undue influence” over the allocation of research funds.

Karl Tryggvason, a biochemist, had emailed an independent evaluation committee to advocate for particular professors to receive funds, according to a statement from the institute.

“It is unacceptable for a senior member of our university to act in this way,” says Harriet Wallberg-Henriksson, president of the Karolinska Institute.

Tryggvason is no longer dean of research and head of the research board but he is still a professor in the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics. Further investigation and “additional action” may be required, says Karolinska’s statement.

“I take such unethical conduct very, very seriously,” said institute president Harriet Wallberg-Henriksson.

Nancy Pedersen, a genetic epidemiologist and former assistant dean of research, is now listed as dean.