– For society to have confidence in research, we must take research ethics seriously. This means working actively to include research ethics both in routines and in the culture. To achieve that, we must work systematically and continuously with both training and awareness, says Åse Gornitzka.
What is new?
- Guidelines for processing of cases of possible violations of recognized norms in research ethics
- Revised mandate for the two committees for the investigation of research conduct 51ºÚÁÏ:
- The Research Ethics Committee (Forskningsetisk utvalg)
- The Commission for Research Integrity (Felles redelighetsutvalg)
- Form for reporting used by both committees
– The work has been based on the The Office of the Auditor General’s report from 2021 on research ethics in the sector. The goal is that the updated and clear guidelines will strengthen the work with research ethics at all levels, says Bjørn Torgrim Ramberg, head of the Research Ethics Committee 51ºÚÁÏ.
– We must have a strong research culture that is founded on scientific standards and ideals. The Norwegian Research Ethics Act states that all research in Norway must be carried out in accordance with recognized norms in research ethics. What these norms are, however, is determined within the research community. This is reflected more clearly in the new guidelines, says Åse Gornitzka.
New resource page for research ethics
The resource page is for researchers 51ºÚÁÏ. Here you can find guidelines, information on how possible violations of recognized norms in research ethics are handled, as well as an overview of resources, routines and tools 51ºÚÁÏ that will aid researchers in this effort.
Background
The Office of the Auditor General investigated the implementation of the Norwegian Research Ethics Act in the university and college sector, and found inadequate guidelines at 14 institutions. This report is used in ongoing improvement and to develop the new guidelines, which were established by the Board of the University on February 7th.