This episode of Sciencetits uses the case of Paolo Macchiarini, a surgeon who promised groundbreaking advances in regenerative medicine but ultimately left a trail of tragedy to kick off a conversation about the pressure to produce results in scientific research. This story reveals that there can be deep issues in scientific research where results are prioritised over integrity.

We also look at the broader problem of research misconduct in both academic and pharmaceutical fields. From falsified clinical trials in high-profile cases to manipulated data and billion-dollar settlements, there can be severe consequences of unethical research practices. We discuss various pressures, such as the “publish or perish” culture, and the incentives for pharmaceutical companies to produce blockbuster drugs, which can lead to compromised results.

As always let us know what you think!

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Content outlined and presented by Brenda Finney and Frances Hall.

Music from audiojungle.net – Konstantin Kasyanov

Links mentioned in the show:

Dr. Death- Season 3 – Miracle Man

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3Qdxy7wOQtkBIDqfvZo8U7?si=5SvltqQwSD-bmpAcejyCQw

Timeline from the Karolinska Institute

https://news.ki.se/news-archive/the-macchiarini-case-timeline

Other articles

https://www.nature.com/articles/nature.2016.20533

https://www.nature.com/articles/537137a

https://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/25/world/leading-surgeon-is-accused-of-misconduct-in-experimental-transplant-operations.html

Retraction Watch

https://retractionwatch.com/

Benita’s Press

https://people.com/bad-surgeon-news-prodocer-scammed-by-paolo-macchiarini-benita-alexander-speaks-exclusive-8415370

https://www.vanityfair.com/news/2016/01/celebrity-surgeon-nbc-news-producer-scam

GLP Fraud

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-edinburgh-east-fife-22186220

As always if you have questions or suggestions please get in touch! Email: [email protected]

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Content outlined and presented by Brenda Finney and Frances Hall.

Music from audiojungle.net – Konstantin Kasyanov

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