To Discourage Science Misconduct, Encourage “Delight of Discovery”

January 24, 2024

A top research center, the Harvard-affiliated Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, plans to retract or correct numerous scientific papers amid allegations that the authors falsified data by manipulating images. In Issues, the science reporter Richard Harris examines some of the core elements of today’s research culture, including pressure to publish papers in order to obtain grants and promotions, that can contribute to such misconduct. Wide-ranging efforts will be needed, he writes, that constantly encourage researchers “to put the delight of discovery above the ambition to get yet another grant and add yet another publication to their curriculum vitae.”