Introduction
During the 2003-2004 Academic year, the Institute of Ecosystem Studies (IES) initiated a discussion group on Responsible Conduct in Research. This series of discussions revolved around case studies that were designed to facilitate open exchanges about what constitutes responsible conduct in science. These discussions were convened by Marie F. Smith, CRA, Grants Administrator/Compliance Officer, and were attended by the members of the IES scientific community (Scientists, Postdocs, Research Specialists and Project Assistants) and members of the IES administrative staff.
Once a month a member of the Scientific Staff chose the discussion topic for presentation and led the discussion. Most discussion leaders chose to write their own case study in collaboration with various members of the scientific and administrative community.
From the outset, the group went beyond clear-cut cases of unethical conduct, such as plagiarism or falsification of data. Instead, the group shaped the case studies to delve into the gray areas of ethical conduct- the situations where individuals differ in their perceptions and interpretations of what constitutes ethical behavior and a fair situation for all involved. These case studies went to the core of how individuals can be productive scientists and interact with each other in an atmosphere of trust and respect. These case studies were deliberately written to be thought provoking in an attempt to engage members of the community in constructive conversations and to raise awareness of harmful behaviors and practices. Quite often the discussions on the case study topics have continued beyond the scheduled meeting times.
Our experience was that these case studies taught us a lot about one another, and were instrumental in creating an atmosphere where we can openly discuss "sensitive" subjects. Because of this, we felt it was very important to share these with others who may be interested.
The case studies are available by clicking on the links below. If you are planning to use one or more of our original case studies, we ask that credit be given to the author(s) and to the Institute of Ecosystem Studies.
Discussion Group Meetings
June 10, 2005
Postdoctoral Experience at IES
Led by Dr. Jonathan Jeschke
Sigma Xi Survey Summary
January 11, 2005
Harrassment, Worship, Admiration or Imagination?
Led by Marie F. Smith, CRA
Case Study
June 16, 2004
On Being a Responsible Scientist
Led by Dr. Clive Jones
Case Study
Additional reading 1
Additional reading 2
May 13, 2004
Personal Conduct & Harassment
Led by Dr. Maria Uriarte
Case Study
April 22, 2004
The Other Side of Collaboration: Maintaining the Balance of Power
Led by Dr. Valerie Eviner and Ms. Marie Smith
Case Study
April, 2004 - Presentation to the Board of Directors
Mentoring & Ethics
Led by Drs. Holly Ewing and Maria Uriarte
Case Study
March 18, 2004
Collaboration
Co-Led by Drs. Valerie Eviner and Kathleen Weathers
Case Study
February 19, 2004
Publication & Authorship
Led by Dr. Jonathan Jeschke
Case Study
discussion in the mailing list ECOLOG-L
January 15, 2004
Ownership of Research Materials
Led by Dr. Peter Groffman
Case Study
Data Access Policy for the LTER Network
December 18, 2003
Mentoring & Ethics
Case Study
Led by Dr. Maria Uriarte
Publication:
Other Related Links:
Other Related Readings:
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