Avoid Shortcuts –Embrace the PROCESS for a Fulfilling Career
In today’s fast-paced academic environment, early-career researchers often face immense pressure to produce everything from papers, results, etc. quickly. The temptation to take shortcuts—rushing experiments, selectively reporting data, or bypassing critical validation steps—can be alluring. These shortcuts come at a steep cost, undermining the very foundation of scientific integrity and long-term success.
Shortcuts always seem to yield faster results, but they rarely lead to genuine scientific breakthroughs. A hastily conducted study may generate data, but without robust validation, its conclusions are fragile. The scientific process demands hard work, meticulous experimentation, repeated verification, and thorough peer review. Cutting corners may bring temporary recognition, but it often leads to retractions, credibility loss, and stalled careers.
Science is a JOURNEY. Every step is crucial. Avoid BY PASSING any!
Take the example of the nature article that was published in 2023, it highlighted that over 10,000 research papers were retracted. This was a devastating consequence not only to the individuals involved but also to Scientific Integrity as a whole. The ‘publish or perish’ culture can push researchers to take unethical or careless routes. Institutions and mentors must support early-career scientists by:
My former supervisor and mentor Segun Fatumo in one of his motivation posts said "As early career researchers, it's crucial to build a solid foundation of rigorous research practices. Avoid shortcuts, double-check your data, and always ensure your findings stand the test of scrutiny".
Quick wins only provide a temporal benefit, but a commitment to thoroughness leads to more meaningful contributions over time. By resisting the lure of shortcuts and embracing the demanding yet rewarding path of careful research, young scientists lay the groundwork for lasting success.
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In science, as in life, the long road is often the most rewarding one.
RELIABLE SCIENCE is REPRODUCIBLE SCIENCE.
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