Gift authorships and research awards

Abstract

Authorship is the fulfillment of the responsibility to communicate research results to the scientific community for external evaluation and the primary basis for assessing a scientist’s contributions to developing new knowledge (1). It is also a way of giving credit for intellectual work. Research publications are also important for academic promotions, when applying for better positions elsewhere and acquiring research grants. Further, it adds to the reputation of an individual as well as to the institution the person is attached to, as the quality of academic institutions are evaluated on part by publications. In addition it recognizes the expertness in research methods, integrity of the work and productivity. (see PDF for full editorial)