Prominent disinformation scholar Joan Donovan has accused Harvard University of dismissing her in order to please Facebook and its current and former executives, thereby infringing on her right to free speech. Donovan, the research director of Harvard Kennedy School projects focused on mis- and disinformation on social media platforms, raised millions in grants, testified before Congress, and criticized internet companies for profiting from divisive falsehoods. Donovan claims that her superiors turned against her as Harvard received a $500 million pledge from Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg's charitable arm.

Harvard denies Donovan's claims, stating that she was a staff employee and that a faculty sponsor was needed for her work. The university also denies firing her, stating that she was offered a part-time adjunct lecturer position. The filing raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest between research institutions and Big Tech companies. Donovan's case highlights the importance of academic freedom and the complex relationship between academia and major tech players.