<< Previous Section | < Previous Page | Next Page > | Next Section >> Practical Elements of Responsible Research Conduct (page 2 of 3) Collegiality, sharing This aspect of professional behavior has always been a core value of science. There is an NIH policy on sharing reagents, databases and transgenic animals. Materials Transfer Agreements (MTAs) routinely monitor the transfer of resources between labs and between institutions. On the other hand, science is so competitive that sharing may reduce credit to the lab and diminish the scientific achievement associated with the effort of the trainees in the lab, two of the major signs of research success. How to balance the two mandates is a serious challenge. Patent and licensure are highly desired by research institutions and accrue benefit to investigators as well. They may require secrecy in research and sometimes result in closed laboratories where the trainees cannot discuss their work. This is incompatible with collegiality and sharing. A major element of scientific integrity is the proper assignment of credit for past work of others and current work within the research group. Scrupulous adherence to this practice will help greatly but not eliminate dissatisfaction. Is there a process to ensure understanding and appropriate assignment of authorship and credit? Mentorship What is the essence of mentorship? Is it taking on a fiduciary responsibility for the trainee and putting her needs first? That too is one of the practices of research integrity. Questions arise such as, Is it appropriate for a PI to refuse to mentor the trainees in the lab? Is one mentor enough for a trainee or are they better off looking at least for a professional mentor and a research mentor? What are the responsibilities of mentors toward trainees? What are the characteristics of good mentors? What are the responsibilities of trainees toward mentors? << Previous Section | < Previous Page | Next Page > | Next Section >> Chapter 1 Quick Links The Ethical Basis of RCRH The Nature of Science Research Integrity Professionalism in Science Practical Elements of Responsible Research Conduct Cases Bibliography Chapter 1 Download (PDF)