Scientific research in the age of omics: the good, the bad, and the sloppy

J Am Med Inform Assoc. 2013 Jan 1;20(1):125-7. doi: 10.1136/amiajnl-2012-000972. Epub 2012 Oct 4.

Abstract

It has been claimed that most research findings are false, and it is known that large-scale studies involving omics data are especially prone to errors in design, execution, and analysis. The situation is alarming because taxpayer dollars fund a substantial amount of biomedical research, and because the publication of a research article that is later determined to be flawed can erode the credibility of an entire field, resulting in a severe and negative impact for years to come. Here, we urge the development of an online, open-access, postpublication, peer review system that will increase the accountability of scientists for the quality of their research and the ability of readers to distinguish good from sloppy science.

MeSH terms

  • Access to Information
  • Biomedical Research*
  • Humans
  • Internet
  • Models, Organizational
  • Peer Review, Research / methods*
  • Quality Improvement*
  • Social Responsibility