Unreliable

This is a rollicking good read, written in an informal style, and enlivened by cartoons, which works as a scholarly and accessible account of the so-called reproducibility crisis in biomedical research.

Szabo knows this world inside out and has managed to rise to the top of his field.

[‘Unreliable’] is a disturbing but compelling exploration of the causes of irreproducibility—from hypercompetition and honest errors, to statistical shenanigans and outright fraud.

Szabo blows the lid off his field. Essential reading for everyone working in—and contemplating entering—biomedical science, ‘Unreliable’ is an engrossing, timely contribution to research fraud, the resultant reproducibility crisis, and the ongoing battle for scientific integrity.

Jaw-dropping. A troubling wake-up call for scientific researchers.

George Hasko, Columbia University:
If one of the world's most highly cited biomedical scientists concludes that the majority of the published biomedical literature is unreliable, you better pay attention. Unreliable is supported by vast amounts of data, and it is infused with biting, sarcastic dark humor.

Paul Brookes, University of Rochester Medical Center:
The stories in the book are from the frontlines, where those of us who try to maintain research funding and run a lab are fighting misconduct daily. Importantly, the book offers concrete solutions for how we as scientists might hope to fix the broken systems of research oversight.

György Buzsáki, New York University:
Science is a respected profession, but it is the product of human activity. Thus, human errors are inevitable. Moreover, some scientists make hubristic claims, and some even engage in data falsification and fabrication. Unreliable exposes the various factors that contribute to the reproducibility crisis in biomedical science.

Dorothy Bishop, Oxford University:
The problem of irreproducible and fraudulent research is addressed in depth by an active researcher at the top level of biomedical science. This highly readable book gives unique insights into the process of how research is funded and conducted, how this creates problems, and what we need to do to counteract an alarming growth in shoddy science.

Albert-László Barabási, Northeastern University:
Unreliable courageously examines the systemic issues plaguing biomedical studies—from immense pressures to flawed incentives that drive researchers toward unethical practices. It is essential reading for anyone concerned with the integrity of scientific research and the implications of its shortcomings on society.

Katalin Karikó, recipient of the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine:
In the name of honest and dedicated scientists, Unreliable is an outcry against the broken system of biomedical research. Csaba Szabo gives a comprehensive analysis of inept grant award schemes and corrupt publication practices and calls for an urgent overhaul.