Research Culture and Integrity in Japan: A Qualitative Study

There have been numerous instances of research and funding fraud by Japanese researchers that have discredited Japanese research, and thus ministries, universities and other institutions have attempted to prevent research misconduct and promote research integrity through measures such as policy amendments and education. However, it is unclear whether those measures have been effective, because research misconduct continues to occur. In this study, we conducted focus group interviews with 25 participants, including both researchers and administrators, from various academic disciplines. The interviews were guided by seven semi-structured questions based on the Promoting Integrity as an Integral Dimension of Excellence in Research protocol. Our analysis of the resulting data identified 20 themes. Regarding research integrity, participants highlighted boundary ambiguity and the need for a new definition. In relation to the research culture, the following barriers were identified: the laboratory environment, job security for junior researchers and middle-senior researchers, and pressures faced by principal investigators. In terms of policies, participants observed that research integrity regulations were not widely disseminated, and proposed several methods to provide education, including informational materials. Regarding improvements to the current environment, participants mentioned performance evaluation, an open research environment, a supportive research environment, and sharing of previous cases. While numerous issues were raised, several solutions were also proposed. We found that gaining access to the collective knowledge of faculty, students, and administrators is the best way to foster a strong research culture and develop research integrity.