The Definition of Misconduct in Science: A View From NSF

Abstract

Conclusion: NSF [National Science Foundation] uses an open-ended definition that contains the phrase "other serious deviation from accepted practices." To date, this definition has worked successfully. One of its major advantages is that it leaves the agency the possibility of taking action when a case arises that is not on some short list of types of misconduct. It is legitimate to ask how NSF understands this definition, how it was applied in a major case, and what safeguards there are against abuse. If the Academy [National Academy of Sciences] panel had asked, it might have produced more helpful recommendations and might have advanced the discussion of this subject much more than it did. Those who work on misconduct cases will always need the guidance and insights of their colleagues in the broader scientific community. But those who wish to make useful policy recommendations also need the insights of those with day-to-day experience in this highly controversial area.