Research data mismanagement - from questionable research practice to research misconduct

Area of Science:

• Scientific research
• Data management
• Research integrity

Background:

• Good record keeping and research data management are crucial for responsible conduct and reproducibility.
• Inadequate research data management is often linked to research misconduct.
• Poor data archival or data loss are not typically considered misconduct on their own.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze how research data mismanagement (RDMM) can be classified as a questionable research practice (QRP).
• To determine the conditions under which RDMM constitutes research misconduct, such as falsification or fabrication.
• To explore the adjudication of RDMM as misconduct based on intent and consequences.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of postulated scenarios to contextualize RDMM.
• Examination of raw/primary data availability and research replicability.
• Exploration of intent and consequences in adjudicating RDMM.

Main Results:

• Most instances of research data mismanagement (RDMM) can be considered questionable research practices (QRP).
• Severe RDMM can be viewed as research misconduct, akin to data falsification or fabrication.
• The study provides a framework for understanding RDMM's severity.

Conclusions:

• Defining RDMM's role in QRP and misconduct is essential for developing robust institutional policies.
• Clearer definitions can help mitigate undesirable events arising from poor data management.
• Promoting responsible research conduct requires addressing RDMM effectively.