In 2023, Harvard Business School professor Francesca Gino was accused of fabricating data in several studies. The allegations triggered Harvard’s investigation and Gino’s suspension, as well as her $25 million defamation lawsuit. UC Berkeley professor Juliana Schroeder, a frequent collaborator, led an audit of their shared work but uncovered manipulated data in her own studies, leading to retractions.
The scandal revealed systemic flaws in business school psychology, a field known for high-profile findings and lucrative rewards. Weak research standards and pressure to produce flashy results created fertile ground for misconduct.
Despite calls for transparency, accountability has been limited. While Schroeder’s public self-audit was praised, broader systemic reforms are needed. Trust in the field has eroded, leaving many researchers questioning its future.
This story was originally featured on The Atlantic.
