Science, research improved

China will strive to promote the credibility and integrity of science and research, according to a guideline released on Thursday. The guideline, jointly released by the General Office of Communist Party of China Central Committee and the General Office of State Council, is aimed to boost the environment for innovation in science and technology.

According to the guideline, various institutions that are devoted to R&D activities or scientific and technological management services, should carry the main responsibility for promoting credibility and integrity.

The Ministry of Science and Technology and the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences will take a leading responsibility in coordinating and managing the work of scientific integrity in the fields of science and social sciences respectively.

Individuals who are devoted to R&D activities or scientific and technological management services must remain self-disciplined. Researchers must obey moral principles of science and norms for research activities.

Plagiarizing the works of others and forging or manipulating research data is strictly forbidden. Purchasing research papers or writing papers on behalf of others will also be punished, as well as using deception to apply for programs in scientific and technological plans, research funds, awards and honors. A system of credibility commitment will be established for the publishing of research papers, as well as a traceability mechanism for scientific research.

Depending on the severity of the offense, punishment can range from canceling a project’s funding to revoking the offender’s titles and permanently banning them from promotion or other research positions.