Guidance and support

The subject of this document is research ethics. The focus of "research ethics" is a very practical one: How should we as researchers act? Unfortunately, the choices we face are not always clear. And even those cases that are clear may at times be better characterized as "right vs. right" rather than "right vs. wrong," For these reasons, our obligation is not necessarily to make the right decisions, but to strive to make the best possible decisions. In this context, "ethics" should not be confused with ethical theory, morality, and/or simply following the rules. As you read this document, please consider it only a starting point. You are encouraged to raise questions and initiate discussion about these issues with your teachers, your mentors, your peers, or your students or trainees. These discussions are the foundation for promoting awareness and understanding of the highest standards of responsible conduct of research.