To ensure the continued support and visibility of METRIC, please cite the facility in all scholarly outputs—including publications, theses, dissertations, and presentations—that utilize data collected at METRIC facilities.

Authorship is recommended when METRIC scientists have made intellectual contributions to the research project. The ICMJE recommends that authorship be based on the following 4 criteria:

• Substantial contributions to the conception or design of the work; or the acquisition, analysis, or interpretation of data for the work; AND
• Drafting the work or reviewing it critically for important intellectual content; AND
• Final approval of the version to be published; AND
• Agreement to be accountable for all aspects of the work in ensuring that questions related to the accuracy or integrity of any part of the work are appropriately investigated and resolved..

Researchers are encouraged to discuss authorship with METRIC personnel at the outset of a project. Standard services typically do not merit authorship. However, when the expertise of a staff member is essential to the successful design and execution of the study, authorship should be discussed.

What Authorship Looks Like

Scenario 1: First Author
A METRIC scientist leads the development and publication of a novel analytical method. As first author, they fulfill all ICMJE criteria by spearheading the design, data interpretation, and manuscript preparation. This work then serves as the primary reference for collaborators to cite in subsequent studies.

Scenario 2: Middle Author
A METRIC scientist provides substantial intellectual contributions, such as method design, data acquisition, or advanced interpretation. To qualify for authorship per ICMJE recommendations, the scientist must also participate in drafting or critically revising the manuscript, provide final approval of the version to be published, and share accountability for the work’s integrity.