What defines the author list of a research paper?

The author list of a research paper is defined by individuals who made significant contributions to the research. This includes those who were involved in the conception and design of the study, data collection and analysis, interpretation of the results, and the writing of the manuscript. These contributions ensure that the research is accurately represented and credited to those who played a crucial role in the execution and outcome of the study.

Having authors who have made significant contributions helps maintain academic integrity and gives recognition to the work done by researchers. It highlights their roles in the research process and ensures accountability for the content of the publication. The other options do not capture the essence of authorship. For instance, listing authors in alphabetical order does not reflect the contributions made, while only including funders or restricting authorship to researchers from the same institution overlooks the collaborative nature of research that often involves diverse contributions from multiple individuals regardless of their funding status or institutional affiliation.