Protecting the Integrity of Government Science

This report is the first product of the Scientific Integrity Fast-Track Action Committee of the National Science and Technology Council (SI-FTAC). As called for in the 2021 Presidential Memorandum, it assesses scientific integrity policies of Federal departments and agencies and instances in which they have not been followed or enforced, and it identifies effective practices for strengthening scientific integrity in specific areas, including training and transparency in scientific integrity, handling scientific disagreements, supporting professional development of Federal scientists, addressing emerging challenges to scientific integrity, and effective communication of the results of Federal scientific activities. The report is intended to assist Federal departments and agencies in creating or updating scientific integrity policies and implementing effective practices. It was developed by the SI-FTAC with contributions from other Federal Government staff, extensive public engagement, and support from the IDA Science and Technology Policy Institute.