Dr. Anna Abalkina (FU)
Dr. Torsten Rackoll (CH)
Dr. René Aquarius (external collaborator, RU, NL)

This two-day workshop is a vital career development and networking initiative for postdoctoral and early-career researchers focusing on the growing, multidisciplinary threat of scientific paper mills—for-profit entities producing large-scale fraudulent research. Its primary objectives are to build a foundational network of experts, bridge disciplinary isolation, discuss crucial funding opportunities and research gaps, and foster international collaboration to advance this novel field. As a potential outcome of the workshop, participants will discuss and explore the development of a jointly authored policy-oriented summary aimed at informing relevant stakeholders about strategies for detecting and preventing paper mills. Professional relationships established during the workshop will be maintained post-event through a mailing list and a dedicated social media group, supporting continued exchange and collaboration and contributing to longer-term efforts to improve research quality and public trust in science.