Disgraced scientist Hwang Woo-suk likely faces dismissal or other severe punishment from his employer Seoul National University.

In a New Year's ceremony Monday, university president Chung Un-chan pledged a thorough investigation on the stem cell scandal and strict disciplinary action on those responsible.

The university could fire Hwang as professor or impose another heavy punishment after its investigative panel probing the scandal releases its final results next week.

Last month, Hwang expressed his intent to resign from all of his posts but has yet to submit a letter of resignation to the university.