High-quality, trustworthy science enables HHS to protect and strengthen the health and well-being of all Americans. It also supports better decisions, improves public health, and builds public trust in scientific institutions.
What is Gold Standard Science?
HHS is dedicated to upholding Gold Standard Science in all aspects of its scientific activities, programs, and policies. Gold Standard Science is based on nine principles that help make federal science and scientific research reliable and trustworthy.
Nine Tenets of Gold Standard Science
- Reproducibility
- Transparency
- Communication of error and uncertainty
- Collaboration and interdisciplinary science
- Constructive skepticism of findings and assumptions
- Use of falsifiable hypotheses
- Use of unbiased peer review
- Acceptance of negative results as positive outcomes
- Minimizing conflicts of interest
Gold Standard Science Reports
Read the 2026 Gold Standard Science Report
In 2026, HHS and its Divisions continue to advance Gold Standard Science by expanding trainings, improving policies, and using new technology. This report discusses the latest actions taken by HHS Divisions to support implementation of Gold Standard Science.
Previous Reports
The first HHS report on Implementing Gold Standard Science, published in 2025, highlighted key examples of the policies, programs, and activities at HHS that support each of the nine tenets of Gold Standard Science.
Background
In May 2025, Executive Order 14303, Restoring Gold Standard Science, directed federal agencies to follow the nine tenets of Gold Standard Science and emphasized the importance of ensuring that federally funded research is transparent, rigorous, and impactful.
You can read more details in related guidance from the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP).
Related Content
Scientific Integrity
Read about the HHS Scientific Integrity Policy and the Scientific Integrity Council.
Report a Potential Loss of Scientific Integrity
Learn what to do if you have concerns about scientific integrity at HHS.
Human Research Protections
Find out how we protect human subjects involved in research supported by HHS.