ST. LOUIS—Washington University and the U.S. Department of Justice have agreed to a settlement after the agency’s Civil Rights Division accused the University’s School of Medicine of discrimination in violation of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

In an announcement Tuesday, authorities said the employee, who was granted asylum, was repeatedly confronted by the school about his immigration status, documentation and permission to work.

The Justice Department said when the employee complained about the discrimination, he was fired. 

“Workers who believe that an employer has discriminated against them based on citizenship status have the right to stand up for themselves, including by making internal complaints to the employer, without retaliation,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division in a statement. “The Justice Department is committed to holding employers accountable for unlawful discrimination and retaliation.”

School officials have not responded to a request for comment, but according to the settlement agreement, the University said it “does not admit and strictly denies” the claims of discrimination or any wrongdoing. “Respondent believes it acted in good faith in dealing with the Charging Party and that any inquiries made to the Charging Party were lawful and appropriate.”

The University agreed to a fine of $4,465 and $3,264 in back pay to the former employee and will train staff about the anti-discrimination components of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

Washington University will also be subject to Department of Justice monitoring and reporting requirements and will update its employment policies.