The importance of honesty in scientific research has remained constant throughout history. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has long-standing policies and robust processes to ensure that the science it funds and conducts is accurate and objective. These policies not only safeguard research results from suppression, manipulation, and inappropriate influence but also uphold the principles of scientific integrity.
In 2022, the NIH took a significant step forward by revising its compendium document, NIH Policies and Procedures for Promoting Scientific Integrity. This update aligns with the expectations outlined in President Biden’s Memorandum on Restoring Trust in Government Through Scientific Integrity and Evidence-Based Policymaking. The revised compendium now addresses emerging and cross-cutting themes that have arisen since its initial publication in 2012.
In addition to the compendium update, the NIH has introduced the Draft Scientific Integrity Policy of the National Institutes of Health. It reaffirms NIH’s unwavering commitment to scientific integrity and aligns with the recently released Draft Scientific Integrity Policy of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Here are some of the highlights from the new Draft NIH Scientific Integrity Policy:
- Shared Definition: The policy provides a standard definition that can be shared across the U.S. Government, emphasizing the importance of consistency and transparency.
- New Leadership Roles: It establishes the positions of NIH Chief Scientist and NIH Scientific Integrity Official, clearly defining their roles and responsibilities to protect scientific integrity.
- Guarding Against Political Interference: The policy includes safeguards to protect against inappropriate political interference, emphasizing the importance of keeping science free from undue influence.
The NIH understands that the public is an equal partner in the research they conduct and fund. They invite your thoughts and input on the Draft NIH Scientific Integrity Policy. They will accept comments until November 9, 2023, through an online form available below.
