Academic publishing faces increasing calls for external regulation to address integrity issues, mirroring oversight applied to sectors like healthcare and manufacturing. The proposal suggests independent bodies should assess journals and publishers to mitigate problems ranging from delayed corrections of flawed research to the proliferation of AI-generated manuscripts and authorship-for-sale schemes.

The push for regulation stems from concerns about the current state of academic publishing, where a lack of independent checks can lead to compromised scientific literature. This mirrors industries where consumer safety is paramount. "Hospitals, airlines and drug manufacturers are subject to oversight by external regulators, to ensure that consumers receive safe and high-quality services and products," according to a source familiar with the proposal. The source also noted the current absence of such oversight in academic publishing is "strange."

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in research has further complicated the landscape. AI reviewers are emerging, but the scientific community is not yet fully prepared to handle the influx of AI-generated content, including manuscripts produced by "paper-mill businesses." These entities exploit the pressure to publish, offering authorship on fabricated or low-quality papers.

The proposed regulatory framework would involve journals submitting to independent assessment. This would likely include checks on the processes for handling corrections, retractions, and identifying manipulated or fraudulent research. The aim is to create a system where publishers are held accountable for maintaining the integrity of their publications.

The concept of external regulation is not new to science. Laboratories working with genetically modified organisms, for example, often require external certification to demonstrate safe handling and storage procedures. "There's nothing like knowing that an inspector could show up unannounced to focus people on safety standards," the source said.

While the proposal is gaining traction, the specifics of how such regulation would be implemented remain under discussion. Key questions include the structure of the regulatory body, the scope of its authority, and the funding mechanisms to support its operations. The debate also involves concerns about potential bureaucratic burdens and the impact on academic freedom.

The next steps involve further consultation with stakeholders, including publishers, researchers, and policymakers, to develop a comprehensive regulatory framework. The goal is to strike a balance between ensuring research integrity and fostering a vibrant and innovative scientific community.