Stop shielding academic bullies, or science loses its brightest
A Nature World View argues that universities’ reflex to punish alleged bullies—sidelining researchers, closing labs, and publicizing allegations—often harms the accused and pushes capable scientists, especially early-career researchers, out of science; this cycle undermines mentorship and scientific progress, so reforms are needed to ensure fair investigations, accountability, and protected support for victims without destabilizing careers.
