Until this case, yes. From what I can gather, the goal of it is to allow for more abstract research that may draw criticism; a way to say "this person has been

Until this case, yes. From what I can gather, the goal of it is to allow for more abstract research that may draw criticism; a way to say "this person has been reliable and known reputable in this field for X time". Imagine a medical professor with tenure who wants to do research surrounding umbilical stem cells, or fetal research. Tenure, from my understanding, would give them some understanding or forgiveness for the controversial nature of their research topic.