Scientific Integrity

The Dean was invited by The Graduate School to speak at the white coat ceremony for PhD students. The topic was scientific integrity. I created a presentation for her and crafted a loose script for her to follow.

Good afternoon. My name is Beth NeSmith, and I am honored to be speaking with you today. I want to begin by saying congratulations to you all. This ceremony is an annual tradition that recognizes the next phase of your academic journey. Each of you has made the decision to pursue your PhD in fields that directly impact the health and wellbeing of others. Your future research enhances our scientific understandings, and that is to be commended.

The white coat you receive today is a symbol of the high standards of integrity and professionalism expected of you as you embark on your scientific careers. As you begin this journey, I invite you to view this white coat as a reflection of the research and authority you will develop during your time in your programs.

The US National Science Foundation defines scientific integrity as the adherence to professional practices, ethical behavior and the principles of honesty and objectivity when conducting, managing, using the results of and communicating about science and scientific activities.

The NSF goes on to identify the hallmarks of scientific integrity as inclusivity, transparency, and protection from inappropriate influence.

In your approach to inclusivity, practice fairness in peer review. Demonstrate collegiality in scientific interactions; this includes communications and the sharing of resources. Commit to accuracy in representing contributions to research proposals and reports.

As you strive for transparency, practice intellectual honesty in proposing, performing and reporting research. Be clear and open about potential or existing conflicts of interest.

And ultimately, protect yourselves and others. Protect human subjects in the conduct of research, display humane care of animals in the conduct of research, and adhere to the mutual responsibilities between investigators and their research teams.

Why the focus on scientific integrity? Surely, there must be other aspects to achieving a PhD. And yes, there are. But the importance of scientific integrity simply cannot be overstated. It ensures objectivity, clarity, reproducibility, and utility.

Scientific integrity is the best defense from bias, fabrication, falsification, plagiarism, outside interference, and censorship.

Integrity builds public support through trust in the quality of work. As researchers we aim for knowledge, truth, and the avoidance of error. A commitment to scientific integrity promotes compliance, health, and safety.

Your integrity should embody the personal responsibility for your actions and research conduct. As you move forward, your integrity is the most precious of resources you have. The U.S. Department of the Interior identifies integrity as the currency of science. The building of your wealth through integrity affords you credibility among colleagues and the community. Investing in scientific integrity is protecting your value as a researcher.

As I speak today, the concept of scientific integrity sounds just that. A concept. A theory. But I assure you, it is a practical skill. And like all skills, it will take practice. It will challenge you. But like all your academic challenges thus far, you will master it.

Fostering a culture of integrity takes all of us, making the right decisions each and every day. Practicing what we have learned, acting with intention.

Challenge yourself to adhere to the highest standards of procedure, and challenge others when appropriate. Reflect on your progress. Check in with yourself each step of the way and be mindful of the choices you make and their impact.

 In the beginning of his administration, President Barack Obama issues a Presidential Memorandum on scientific integrity to ensure the public is able to "trust the science and scientific process informing public-policy decisions." This was one of his first actions as the leader of our country because he understood the impact that we have on the American people.

You are uniquely situated to inform evidence-based practice. Your work has the potential to enhance the lives of your community, and your commitment to scientific integrity is a gift to those around you. As a nurse researcher, my goal is for the work I do to have a positive impact on the lives of practicing nurses and their patients. You are the future of advancement. And as I look out at you all today, I can see the future is bright.

I am honored to be here with you today, and I know that all faculty in attendance agree with me when I say that we have the utmost confidence in you all. We look forward to supporting you, to mentoring you, and do celebrating each and every accomplishment with you. Thank you so much, and best of luck to you.