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Science Study Shows 'Smoking Gun' Topological Signals Can Arise From Trivial Effects

The authors urge broader data sharing to reduce misinterpretation in experiments that guide topological quantum computing.

Overview

  • Led by Sergey Frolov with colleagues in Minnesota and Grenoble, the team replicated four high-profile signatures in nanoscale devices using non-topological mechanisms.
  • The work consolidates multiple replication attempts into a single paper that Science published after a two-year peer and editorial review.
  • The authors say earlier follow-ups were rejected by leading journals for lacking novelty despite reproducing similar data.
  • The study explains how fine-tuning experimental parameters can introduce confirmation bias that produces apparent breakthroughs.
  • Recommendations include releasing comprehensive datasets, disclosing full study volumes, and explicitly testing alternative explanations for reported signals.