Differing Scientific Opinion

{
  "id": "MLC-T-ENV-007941",
  "term": "Differing Scientific Opinion",
  "field": "Environment",
  "definition": "A differing opinion of an EPA scientist who is or was substantively engaged in the scientific activity that may inform an EPA decision. It generally contrasts with a prevailing staff opinion included in a scientific product under development that concerns scientific data, environmental information, analysis, interpretations, or conclusions, rather than policy options or decisions. \"Substantively engaged in the science\" refers to having contributed scientific expertise in an official capacity as a co-author, team member, or subject matter expert in the development of a scientific product, beyond presence at meetings or on mailing lists. If a scientist serves as a technical or peer reviewer, their scientific opinions should be included as part of the review consistent with EPA’s Peer Review Handbook. Scientific differences of opinion do not constitute insubordination or research misconduct and are part of the scientific process. A differing scientific opinion does not include personal opinions about scientific issues that are not accompanied by scientific arguments.",
  "abbreviation": "DSO",
  "subject": "Policy and guidance",
  "references": [
    "EPA 2025 Scientific Integrity Policy"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/environment/differing-scientific-opinion/"
}