bioethics  

The Nuffield Council on Bioethics has published its report on The Culture of Scientific Ethics.  The focus of the study was the ethical implications of the current culture of scientific research, focused on particular concerns: competition; funding of research; assessment of research; research integrity; and career progression and workload.  Suggestions for action are summarised as follows:

DISSEMINATION

• Publication of a wide range of rigorous research
• Openness and data sharing between researchers

ASSESSMENT

• Use of a broad range of criteria in research assessments
• Recognition of the wider activities of researchers
• Training and recognition for peer reviewers

FUNDING

• Adoption of diverse funding approaches
• Clear communication of funding opportunities and assessment criteria

RESEARCH GOVERNANCE AND INTEGRITY

• Training in good research practice
• Openness about consequences of misconduct
• Adoption of appropriate ethical review processes

CAREERS

• Mentoring and career advice
• Adoption of employment practices that support diversity and inclusion
• Training and recognition for leaders in research

As part of the horizon-scanning processes of the Nuffield Council on Bioethics, a discussion paper on Scientific Research Integrity has been written by Marie-Andrée Jacob of Keele University.  Their Forward Look archive is also available

The Nuffield Council on Bioethics has produced a report on Human Bodies: Donation for Medicine and Research.  Deals with body and tissue donation, setting out a range of ethical issues and options.