The Government of Canada has committed to prioritizing science and evidence in decision-making. Ensuring that principles become policy and that policy becomes action often requires the support of clear and specific behavioural guidelines. To that end, the Government requested the advice of the Office of the Chief Science Advisor on directives for responsibly conducting, communicating, and using federal research and science. The result was the development of a Model Policy on Scientific Integrity.
Policy History
Model Policy on Scientific Integrity (2018)
The Model Policy on Scientific Integrity, released on July 30, 2018, provides a clear statement to federal scientists on how they can speak openly about their work and a framework for employers and employees on the conduct of government science.
- View the Model Policy on Scientific Integrity (2018)
- View the Terms of Reference
Updated Model Policy on Scientific Integrity (2026)
To ensure the policy remains fit for purpose, the Office of the Chief Science Advisor has developed an updated Model Policy on Scientific Integrity. Developed through extensive consultations, the updated policy addresses key issues such as research security, artificial intelligence, and the appropriate use of Indigenous data and information. These updates will help federal organizations in continuing to advance a culture of scientific integrity.
- View the Updated Model Policy on Scientific Integrity (2026)
The Status of Federal Scientific Integrity Policies
The model was drafted as a guide for 24 federal departments and agencies that were required to implement a scientific integrity policy by December 31, 2019 pursuant to a 2016 Memorandum of Agreement between TBS and PIPSC.
Reports
View the progress of departments in implementing departmental scientific integrity policies and procedures:
- 2023-2024: April 2024
- 2022-2023: December 2023
- 2021-2022: April 2023
- 2020-2021: February 2021
Resources and Tools for Effective Science Advice
The Office of the Chief Science Advisor has developed educational resources to promote a better understanding of the role of science advice in shaping public policies.
Science Shorts: Effective Science–Policy Conversations
Learn about the scientific method, how to consider the difference between facts and values, assessing the strength of scientific evidence, and evaluating the weight of evidence.
- Go to Science Shorts