SUMMER 2016
Research integrity is a heavy term. It may point to just conducting research professionally. The term may, however, encompass ethical aspects as well. The worldwide discussion has not settled on a precise definition yet. Adopting research integrity in a broad sense, the subject came up for DRS three times last months as you will read here.
SPOTLIGHT
FIRST CONFERENCE OF THE NETHERLANDS RESEARCH INTEGRITY NETWORK
Scientists can no more ignore the topic of research integrity since the general public became aware of typical cases of fraud like the one of Stapel. Professor Lex Bouter, therefore, established a Netherlands Research Integrity Network. www.nrin.nl
The first conference of NRIN was on the 25th of May. Professor Steven Goodman of Stanford University addressed the keynote. In 2017, NRIN will host the 5th World Conference on Research Integrity in Amsterdam; a good opportunity to learn more about the topic?! wcri2017.org
SYMPOSIUM BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES LUMC
he symposium on the 3rd of June provided an impression of the high quality of the new generation scientists. www.bssleiden.wordpress.com
The students discussed as well the position of scientists in our modern society. Interestingly, the majority was in favour of scientists focusing on research rather than dealing too intensively with societal issues. They set conducting professional research on top. Perhaps, this is the way to avoid the glamour of high societal impact, of which Stapel became a victim, guaranteeing research integrity.
NEWSPAPER TROUW
The Dutch Minister of Health intends to allow the conception of embryos for scientific purposes. Do we really want this as scientists? Is the academic freedom holly, or is it life? For sure, ethics pop up here. Or, do we talk about research integrity? You may read an article on this issue in the Dutch newspaper Trouw.
BACKSTAGE
In contrast to exploring novelties for the website, writing an annual report is rather boring. It is, however, an efficacious way to see where the company is now, and where to go. The preceding year 2016 was one of stabilising, but also one of preparing the new branch of ‘research integrity’. Do you like to read the annual report? You may just ask us for a digital copy.
