Many Scientific Studies Are Bogus, but Blockchain Can Help

Roughly 2.5 million studies conveying innovative discoveries and solutions are published each year. These analyses, which are backed by huge investments, can rarely be authenticated or proven accurate. Faulty research is common in all the sciences, which can have dire ramifications.

According to NYIT President Hank Foley, Ph.D., in a Scientific American op-ed, that’s where the emerging information technology blockchain may come to the rescue. By authenticating and certifying published research data using the blockchain, the scientific community could reduce errors and regain the public’s confidence, he says.

“Every year, our nation funnels billions of dollars into research that is then used to make crucial policy decisions with even larger implications in lives and dollars. It’s imperative that science give us facts, not false impressions,” Foley states.

Currently, the vast majority of published academic research undergoes a peer-review process in which experts briefly read the study and provide recommendations before determining whether results should be shared widely. He notes this faulty form of authentication enables “bad science,” and could have tremendous real world repercussions, especially in the case of medical research.

“Four in ten Americans will develop cancer in their lifetimes. Researchers need to be able to tell good science from bad as they search for the next generation of cures—and they need to be sure their own research is on target.”

Blockchain, which offers a secure chain of data in a peer-to-peer network, allows any member of the network to access shared data and use the blockchain to exchange information. When a unique set of data, known as a “block,” has been added, anyone with access to that chain can view the data, and as information is modified, all users can see these changes. In addition, each user is assigned an individual timestamp, preventing others from claiming credit for the discovery.

Foley also adds that as the technology grows to become accepted as the first-rate credibility standard, users could post results online directly, bypassing the publisher middle-man. This streamlined approach could allow scientific discoveries to be shared more quickly.

This op-ed is part of an NYIT thought-leadership campaign designed to help generate awareness and build reputation for the university on topics of national relevance. Read more op-eds by NYIT experts.