Events, Activities Emphasize Importance of Ethics for Scholars and Scientists

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As a public research university, UC San Diego is committed to the highest standards of integrity in research. "A world-class research institution has an obligation to the scientific community and the public to foster the highest standards of research integrity,” says Michael Kalichman, Director of the UC San Diego Research Ethics Program. "Research integrity is not just a matter of being a good person, it's an ongoing process of promoting, discussing, and valuing the responsible conduct of research."

The Research Ethics Program is part of the Office of Research Affairs. “We hold ourselves to the highest standards of integrity,” said Vice Chancellor for Research Sandra Brown. “Our campus Research Ethics Program helps ensure that our scholars and scientists incorporate those standards into the vital work they do every day.”

To help maintain and foster research integrity, the Research Ethics Program has announced four upcoming events and activities of interest to members of the entire UC San Diego community.

Visiting Lecture by National Leader in Research Integrity

Dr. Francis Macrina, VP for Research and Innovation, Virginia Commonwealth University, will join the UC San Diego research community to discuss the challenges we face in developing technologies that might be used for purposes other than those intended (e.g., bioterrorism). The event will be held Wednesday, March 2, 1:30-3 pm. For more information, and to register, click here.

Research Integrity Awards

In 2015, the Research Ethics Program launched the first annual competition for awards in research integrity. Nominations for the 2016 program are now open for individuals, including graduate students, who deserve recognition for their contributions to the integrity of research. Nominations are due by Monday, April 4, 8 am. More information can be found here.

Research Integrity Contest

This year, the Research Ethics Program has launched a new contest for students and postdocs who have the talent to express important messages about research integrity in media such as photos, video, or art. Submissions are now being accepted and are due by Thursday, March 31. Awards of up to $250 are being offered. More information can be found here.

Peer Leadership in Scientific Integrity Workshop

A new UC San Diego workshop has been designed for graduate students to promote discussion about research integrity while providing participants with skills and credentials potentially useful to their career goals. The workshop is scheduled for Friday, April 22, 9am-4:30pm. Details can be found online here Space is limited. For more information or to RSVP, please contact ethics@ucsd.edu.