Scientific or medical images are a type of research data that are often included in publications. These include, but are not limited to, images of specimens, blots or gels from electrophoresis, or microscopy. Researchers have a responsibility to maintain the integrity of these images by conducting little to no manipulation before publication. If minor modification is needed, it should be clearly disclosed and should correctly display scientific results, and you should always keep a version of the unaltered image for your records. Be sure to consult journal/publisher guidelines on image manipulation.
With the increasing prevalence of paper mills and other threats to scientific integrity, journals and publishers are utilizing image manipulation and duplication tools to detect misconduct.
Sometimes researchers do not intend to inappropriately reuse or manipulate images but accidently do so as a consequence of poor data management practices. Therefore, one of the best ways to prevent improper image reuse or manipulation is to improve practices and processes for creating, naming, storing, and otherwise managing imaging data. If you would like assistance with these processes, please consult the CSHL Data Management & Sharing Guide or contact the CSHL Research Engagement and Data Curator: Jacqueline Gunther, Ph.D..
CSHL PIs can check their publications for image duplication using the Integrity Manager Tool.
