New rules of engagement: how science journalism flags questionable research
August 25, 19:33
Scientific integrity is a pressing global issue, and watchdog journalism can help hold research to account. A new study by Michele Catanzaro and Luís Peres-Neto at the Autonomous University of Barcelona shows that science journalism can expose falsified and manipulated research — and that these revelations can lead to real-world consequences. The study involved 15 journalists from Spain, Portugal, and Latin America, most of whom could point to specific outcomes from their reporting. In some cases, publications prompted rule changes, official acknowledgments of misconduct, public protests, and greater transparency around research information.
What the investigations covered
Among the topics journalists said they investigated were:
- sexual harassment at Argentine scientific centers;
- the influence of tobacco and pharmaceutical companies on research in Latin America;
- the artificial inflation of university positions in international rankings through purchased scientific affiliations.
Journalists found leads through tips from people inside organizations, official documents, scientific conferences, reader reports, and Retraction Watch, a service that tracks retracted scientific papers.
At the same time, the study uncovered serious barriers that make such investigations difficult. These include scarce funding, limited time, political pressure, conflicts with scientists, psychological strain, and the threat of censorship. Reporting on flawed science without adequate context can also undermine public confidence in research as a whole. Journalists in the study said they try to explain how the scientific process works and to separate isolated bad results from the broader state of science.
The authors suggest that specialized training, increased funding, and better working conditions are needed to improve the situation. Preparing a story can take anywhere from a few days to several years. However, because the study is based on only 15 journalists, the findings cannot be automatically generalized to the entire profession. The participants' conclusions are in line with other studies of investigative journalism.
Ultimately, science journalism remains a vital force in exposing unethical research and contributing to change in the scientific community.
This study emphasizes the role of science journalism in upholding transparency and ethics in research, both essential for public trust in science.
In light of the obstacles identified, journalists need new ways to sustain their work so that science can be properly monitored and society's interests protected. Investing in resources and training for journalists could be key to successfully uncovering unethical practices in science.