NCJ Number
243272
Date Published
2011
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This U.S. Department of Justice's Scientific and Research Integrity Policy lays out principles for maintaining and strengthening a culture of scientific, technological and research validity and reliability.
Abstract
This statement is designed to promote and ensure the objectivity and independence of the U.S. Department of Justice scientific endeavor; it affirms the National Institute of Justice's independence and the Department's commitment to producing scientific materials that are free from political interference and policy advocacy. The implementation of this policy requires the Department to maintain an across-the-board culture of scientific, technological and research validity, reliability, accuracy, objectivity and integrity. Scientific and technological information is often a significant contributor to the development of sound policies, regulations, litigation positions and investigative and intelligence decisionmaking. It is important, therefore, that Department decisionmakers involve subject matter experts in the underlying discipline where appropriate, and that the information and processes relied upon be of the highest integrity, imbued with stringent scientific methodology and principles. Topics covered include information on public communication, Federal advisory committees, professional development of government scientists, and strengthening scientific, technological and research integrity and credibility.