In scientific research, a
written code of conduct is not available.5 The federal government6 and individual institutions7 have been
struggling to clarify the standards under which misconduct can be adjudicated. The central definitions
that delineate misconduct in science include fabrication, falsification, and plagiarism. However, these are
confused by other less clear categories of misconduct, which include “other questionable behavior” or
“other misconduct.” Within this confusion of definitions it is not always obvious to students or faculty
where and toward whom their obligations lie.