Talking Biotech with Dr. Kevin Folta Peer Review and Rigor in Controversial Science - Cam English, Dr. Liza Lockwood
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Oct 19, 2025 Dr. Liza Lockwood, an expert on peer review and scientific integrity, joins Cameron English and Kevin Folta to discuss the frailties of academic publishing. They dive into the nuances of peer review, addressing concerns over low-quality studies and the pressure of 'publish or perish' culture. The trio explores how misinformation spreads and the challenges in correcting it, particularly during the COVID era. They also tackle the fallout from fraudulent research, emphasizing the critical need for transparency and accountability in science.
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Peer Review Is Flawed Yet Effective
- Peer review is imperfect but remains the best available filter for scientific quality.
- Kevin Folta emphasizes reviewers and editors expend great effort despite increasing manuscript complexity.
Fix Review By Prioritizing Qualified Reviewers
- Recruit qualified, willing reviewers and allow sufficient time to review dense modern manuscripts.
- Journals should recognize review workload increases with complex data and supplemental material.
Popularity Can Outweigh Rigor
- High-profile academics can amplify low-quality or ideologically driven work because journals chase citations and attention.
- That incentive skews publication decisions and rewards popularity over rigor.