Scientific Integrity at CDC
Science is the foundation of CDC’s mission to save lives, protect people, and promote health for all. CDC’s world-class scientists, researchers, and health professionals are committed to using the highest possible scientific integrity and quality standards and practices to conduct our critical work. Scientific integrity is the adherence to professional practices, ethical behavior, and the principles of honesty and objectivity when conducting, managing, using the results of, and communicating about science and scientific activities. Inclusivity, transparency, and protection from inappropriate influence are hallmarks of scientific integrity. CDC continually works to strengthen its scientific integrity infrastructure to evolve and keep pace with advances in science and technology.
In January 2021, President Biden issued the Memorandum on Restoring Trust in Government Through Scientific Integrity and Evidence-Based Policymaking. This memo charged the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) with convening a federal, interagency taskforce to review scientific integrity policies and practices. The goal is to identify ways for agencies to bolster their ability to protect and preserve science quality and integrity.
See also 1/12/22 HHS Commitment to Scientific Integrity.
Review “A Framework for Federal Scientific Integrity Policy and Practice,” guidance published January 13, 2023.
To discuss scientific integrity concerns or report suspected research misconduct, contact the CDC Scientific Integrity Official: ScientificIntegrity@cdc.gov.