Data Handling and Record Keeping

What is this about?

This is a hypothetical scenario of a junior researcher who discovers gaps between previously kept records of lab data and what has been published. The scenario poses the question of whether the student researcher should report these inconsistencies or not, and how should he proceed.

The question in this ethics case study by the American Society of Physics is: is this really a case of misconduct in handling data and record keeping? Or is it the result of an honest mistake? Several alternative scenarios of why such inconsistencies can occur are discussed.

Why is this important?

The case demonstrates that: a) sometimes, what initially seems as a violation of research ethics procedures might be the result of a mistake, often more easily performed by researchers in their early careers; b) there may be a lack of clarity on how to deal with what might seem – but not necessarily proven – to be a case of research misconduct in a team.

This is a useful case for students as it provides some practical advice of who a student can raise such concerns with. It provides some ideas on how one can proceed in a manner that would protect all parties involved from potentially unnecessary tribulations.

For whom is this important?

Graduate studentsJunior researchersSupervisors

Other information

Research Area

PE - Physical Sciences and Engineering