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U Asia Campus

Meta-Research Lecture Series Part 2: Dr. John Ioannidis

On May 30, 2025, Dr. John Ioannidis, Professor of Medicine, Epidemiology and Population Health, and Biomedical Data Science at Stanford University, delivered a guest lecture as part of the Meta-Research Lecture Series at the University of Utah Asia Campus. Dr. Ioannidis also serves as Co-Director of the Meta-Research Innovation Center at Stanford (METRICS), a leading initiative in the field of research methodology.

The lecture focused on the theme of reproducibility in research—a fundamental principle for ensuring the integrity and reliability of scientific findings. Dr. Ioannidis discussed various types of reproducibility, including the reproducibility of methods, results, and inferences, and shared practical ways to improve each.

He also examined the reproducibility of studies published in high-profile journals such as Nature and Science, and introduced the use of prediction markers to estimate reproducibility in scientific literature. The lecture highlighted the widespread nature of bias in research, the diverse forms it can take across disciplines, and the often-blurred boundaries between honest error, bias, and unethical behavior. Through compelling statistics and examples, Dr. Ioannidis emphasized the need for better research practices to strengthen scientific credibility.

Dr. Ioannidis concluded with several key takeaways:

  • Despite improvements in some areas, the overall volume of flawed research continues to grow.

  • The conversation around improving research methodology has become more active and urgent.

  • There may be practical limits to how reproducible or useful research can be.

  • While perfection is unattainable, meaningful progress is achievable.

  • Reproducibility indicators are only surrogates—what truly matters is the broader impact of science on society.

This lecture served as a valuable opportunity for students and faculty to reflect on the importance of transparency and rigor in research. We hope the Meta-Research Lecture Series continues to inspire more thoughtful and credible scientific practices that lead to lasting contributions to knowledge and society.