Coral Barbas

Meet Coral Barbas

Analytical Chemistry is key to science because what cannot be measured cannot be improved, and improper measurements lead to incorrect or useless conclusions. To elevate analytical science as the cornerstone of all rigorous science, strategic actions are essential. These actions should highlight its importance and address the prevalent methodological oversights in high-impact biological and medical journals.

A crucial strategy is advocating for rigorous peer review processes. Scientific journals must implement stringent review criteria focused specifically on the analytical methods used in submissions. Peer reviewers need to thoroughly evaluate the analytical rigor of the studies, ensuring that methodologies are appropriate and executed correctly. This will reduce the publication of studies with inadequate methodologies, thus strengthening the reliability of scientific literature.

To achieve this, I propose creating a section titled “Analytical Watcher.” Initially launched in Analytical Scientist, to expand this into a Methodological Review Section in various journals. This section would evaluate and critique the analytical methodologies used in high-profile studies. The goal is to ensure every study meets a high standard of analytical precision and to provide feedback for improving analytical practices. Content could include re-analyses of data, commentary on the suitability of analytical techniques, and recommendations for best practices.

By establishing "Analytical Watcher," journals will uphold the integrity of scientific research and serve as a platform for continuous education and improvement in analytical methods. This initiative will act as a beacon for promoting analytical accuracy and methodological soundness, ensuring studies lead to reliable and reproducible results. It will also assist in proactively correcting the scientific record by offering insights into common pitfalls in analytical approaches and guidance on avoiding them in future research.

Implementing these changes will require collaboration among publishers, editorial boards, and the scientific community. The benefits of enhancing the reliability and credibility of scientific research will undoubtedly justify these efforts. The proactive role of this section in safeguarding scientific standards could also enhance the journal's reputation as a leader in promoting rigorous scientific practices.

Objectives for "Analytical Watcher" would include:

• Providing detailed reviews of analytical methods used in significant studies.

• Offering constructive critiques and suggestions for improvement.

• Highlighting common analytical errors and ways to avoid them.

• Encouraging transparency and reproducibility through improved analytical practices.

• This approach will not only elevate the role of analytical science but also foster a broader discussion on methodological excellence in the scientific community.