Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. unveils a plan to create NIH-managed journals that could fundamentally change how federal scientists publish their research and increase transparency in scientific data.
At a Glance
- Kennedy’s initiative aims to establish new journals managed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for federal scientists
- The plan would dedicate part of NIH’s budget to creating publications that prioritize public access to research data
- Federal scientists may be directed to publish in these new journals rather than established publications like The Lancet
- The proposal addresses concerns about data transparency, study replication, and scientific integrity
- This initiative aligns with HHS policies emphasizing scientific integrity and transparency in government research
A New Direction for Scientific Publishing
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has proposed a significant shift in how government-funded research is published and shared with the public. The initiative focuses on creating NIH-managed journals where federal scientists would publish their work, potentially moving away from traditional academic publications. During discussions on the Ultimate Human Podcast, Kennedy suggested federal scientists might soon be instructed to stop publishing in established journals like The Lancet in favor of these new government-managed publications.
— Stuart Buck (@stuartbuck1) June 22, 2024
This proposal comes as part of a broader effort to enhance scientific integrity and transparency within federal research. If implemented, the plan would allocate a portion of the NIH budget to create these new journals, which would emphasize making raw data publicly available and support replication studies—practices that Kennedy argues are essential for verifying scientific conclusions and building public trust in research findings.
Scientific Integrity Principles at HHS
The proposed journals align with existing Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) policies on scientific integrity. HHS has established frameworks to ensure that scientific and scholarly information used for policy decisions is trustworthy and of high quality. These policies were developed in response to directives from the President and the Office of Science and Technology Policy, highlighting the importance of scientific integrity in government operations.
The department focuses on four key areas: Foundations of Scientific Integrity, Public Communications, Use of Federal Advisory Committees, and Professional Development of Government Scientists and Engineers. These foundations create an environment where transparency and accuracy in scientific communication are prioritized, supporting Kennedy’s vision for more open access to research data and methodologies.
Addressing Recent Policy Changes
The journal proposal comes at a time of significant policy shifts within scientific agencies. Recently, the NIH rescinded its scientific integrity policy to align with the broader HHS policy. The rescinded NIH policy had included specific commitments to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) that are not present in the current HHS policy. This change has raised concerns among some researchers about potential politicization of science.
“The health needs of minorities in this country are a vital priority for me, I don’t see anything in the presidential orders that contradict that.”, said Jay Bhattacharya.
Despite these concerns, NIH Director Jay Bhattacharya has stated he would not allow the institute to be influenced by executive orders that might restrict diversity initiatives. The tension between maintaining scientific independence and implementing new policies highlights the complex environment in which Kennedy’s journal proposal is being introduced.
Benefits of Public Access to Research Data
A core principle of Kennedy’s proposal is making research data publicly accessible. This approach would allow independent verification of research findings and potentially reduce instances of scientific misconduct. The HHS has long emphasized the importance of scientific data in advancing healthcare, public health, and human services, making this aspect of the proposal consistent with existing departmental values.
According to Kennedy, “If that happens, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) will launch its own journals to publish research from its scientists.” This statement indicates concrete plans for implementing the new publishing model, suggesting that preparations may already be underway within the department. The initiative represents a potentially transformative approach to scientific publishing that could increase transparency while maintaining the high standards expected of federal research.
