You have undoubtedly seen studies touting hard-to-believe findings like "fried foods promote longevity" or "tongues can smell just like noses do." Such studies routinely make the social media rounds, and in many cases, they should never see the light of scientific journals.

If findings seem too good (sorry, but drinking all the red wine you desire probably won't increase your lifespan) or too bizarre to be true, consider that you have encountered a study borne of shoddy testing methods.

Scholarly Journals Remain Rife with Shoddy Research

In 2005, physician John Ioannidis boldly proclaimed that "most published research findings are false," noting that many studies lack adequate sample sizes, rigid testing guidelines, or bona fide repeatability.

While Ioannidis' widely-circulated findings have prompted a push towards research integrity and transparency since 2005, many believe that the problem of shoddy research remains a pressing one—look no further than your Facebook feed for indications that questionable studies reach scientific journals regularly.

Research Students Must Be Wary of the Dangers of Insufficient or Deceptive Research—These Hazards Can Even Threaten Your Degree

Intentionally or unintentionally misleading research is a genuine health hazard. For example, might someone put off a life-saving procedure if they read a study suggesting that patients are more likely to die from surgical complications if they're 54 years old?

As students in research fields, including medicine, one must understand what makes data valid. Data is more likely to be trustworthy if it:

1. Has a p-value of .05 or lower, as this indicates that findings are unlikely to be the result of mere random chance
2. Is the result of a study that could be repeated and would produce similar or the same results
3. Results from testing that follows all the other tenets of good research, including a statistically relevant sample size and the absence of bias or manipulation

Research students generally learn about the qualities of trustworthy data but then see professionals in their field violate those tenets. To ensure they never face allegations of unethical research, students should strive to uphold the best research standards throughout their training and career.

Call the Lento Law Firm If You Face Allegations of Unethical Research Practices

Academia sometimes does a funny thing. While we know that scientific journals remain littered with subpar research that fails the repeatability test, medical and scientific schools will hold students to high research standards. In some cases, these expectations are hypocritical, unrealistic, draconian, or enforced in a heavy-handed nature.

Research students are imperfect and sometimes misinterpret expectations, make mistakes, or encounter misunderstandings with their superiors. If they do not put forth a competent defense of their actions, a research student may face suspension or dismissal in the wake of research misconduct claims.

The Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team will negotiate an acceptable resolution if you stand accused of research misconduct. Call us today at 888-535-3686 or contact us online. We will work with your school to clarify the misunderstanding and allow you to move toward graduation.