Ethical Challenges of Research

Ethical Challenges of Research Program

The purpose of this program is to discuss what the responsible conduct of research involves. The program is comprised of two parts: introduction sessions offered every quarter and special topics offered in alternate months. The introductory session and special topics use a combination of small and large group discussions to foster effective communication and resolve problems.

Contemporary researchers face a variety of challenges, such as reduced federal funding, increasing publication pressures, controversies over conflicts of interest, high profile suspensions of clinical trials, and growing public scrutiny of research methods and outcomes. Success in research and professional development requires awareness of these challenges. It also requires skill in managing them and excellent communication. While professional codes of conduct and principles of responsible conduct of research offer some guidance, they may leave trainees unclear how to proceed in real world disputes or “gray areas.” To address these concerns, the UC San Diego Research Ethics Program and the Office of Postdoctoral Scholar Affairs have collaborated to bring UC San Diego postdoctoral scholars the Ethical Challenges of Research Program. The purpose of this program is to discuss what the responsible conduct of research involves. The program is comprised of two parts: introduction sessions offered every quarter and special topics offered in alternate months. The introductory session and special topics use a combination of small and large group discussions to foster effective communication and resolve problems.

Completion of the introduction session with three additional special topic sessions (2 hours each) in the Ethical Challenges series OR the Scientific Ethics course offered through the campus Research Ethics Program (ethics.ucsd.edu) will result in a certificate of training, which may be necessary for various postdoctoral funding sources, such as by NIH training and career development awards or NSF.

Postdoctoral scholars are strongly encouraged to complete the certification as part of their research training and education.

Schedule:

Sessions offered monthly on the 2^nd Wednesdays from 11 am – 1 pm

Introduction Sessions

Instructors: Camille Nebeker, EdD, MS & Barton Palmer, PhD, Research Ethics Program
Offered quarterly alternating with special topic sessions. Find upcoming offerings and register on the OPSA events calendar or in UC Learning.
All sessions will be held in person on the UCSD campus unless otherwise indicated.

Register: ECR: Intro

Special Topic Sessions

Instructors: Research Ethics Program Faculty
Offered in alternate months to Introduction sessions.
All sessions will be held by Zoom unless otherwise indicated.

Rigor and Reproducibility
Societal benefits of research depend on the trustworthiness and reliability of that research. Unfortunately, recent years have been characterized by increased concerns about the high frequency of research that is not reproducible. The problem is not so much one of research misconduct, but rather departures from good practices of science. This workshop will first consider the scope of the problem and then, we will turn to practical questions of why research is often not reproducible and what should be done about this challenge. Our discussion will touch on topics such as authorship, collaboration, data management, mentoring, peer review, and social responsibility. Date: January 15, 2025 Register in UC Learning Presented by Mary Devereaux
Team Science in Academic Research: Strategies for Collaboration and Impact
In an increasingly complex research landscape, the ability to collaborate effectively across disciplines is critical for addressing today’s most pressing academic and societal challenges. This interactive workshop is designed to provide attendees with an introduction to the knowledge and skills needed to excel in team science. Participants will explore the principles of team science, examine strategies for building and managing interdisciplinary collaborations, and learn how to enhance their research impact through cooperative efforts. Through case studies and group discussions, attendees will gain practical insights into fostering synergy and overcoming common challenges in team-based research. Date: March 12, 2025 Register in UC Learning Presented by Camille Nebeker & Gretchen Bandoli
Cultivating Safe Research Environments
This interactive workshop is designed to assist attendees in developing the knowledge and skills needed to foster inclusive and resilient research environments. Students will be introduced to principles and related practices that can promote equity, diversity and inclusion in the lab setting. Through engaging discussions, case studies, and practical strategies, attendees will explore how equity, diversity, and inclusion shape both research practices and design. Topics include privilege, oppression, and microaggressions, as well as actionable steps to create safe spaces for collaboration and innovation. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of EDI, empowered to identify factors that influence safe vs unsafe research spaces with strategies to drive positive change. Date: April 9, 2025 (IN PERSON) Register in UC Learning Presented by Devon Tolliver & Madeleine Paley
Emerging Technology Use in Health Research
Technologies used in health research (i.e.,, mobile apps, wearable sensors, social media platforms, AI/ML) offer unprecedented opportunities for health research and healthcare. However, this rapidly evolving landscape is outpacing regulatory structures designed to promote ethical and responsible practices. This workshop will focus on how technologies are being leveraged to advance precision health and draw attention to nuanced ethical, legal and social implications (e.g., privacy, informed consent, data management) that require careful consideration. Date: June 11, 2025 Register in UC Learning Presented by Camille Nebeker
Navigating Conflicts of Interest in Biomedical Research
This workshop is designed to equip participants with an understanding of conflicts of interest (COI) in biomedical research. Participants will explore the ethical, legal, and social implications of COI, with a focus on enhancing research integrity, protecting participant rights, and adhering to institutional and regulatory requirements. Through interactive discussions and review of case studies, attendees will learn to identify, disclose, and manage conflicts to uphold public trust and foster ethical research practices. Date: July 9, 2025 (IN PERSON) Register in UC Learning Presented by Jennifer Ford
Data Alchemy: Transforming Research through Understanding and Applying Effective Data Management and Sharing
Join us for a workshop focused on effective data management and sharing for researchers. Learn why data management is vital for research impact and reproducibility and discover compliance requirements set by funders and publishers for making data publicly available. Gain insights into selecting the right data repository, considering factors like accessibility, data preservation, security, and discipline-specific needs. Additionally, get guidance on creating a data management and sharing plan (DMSP) that aligns with institutional, funder, and publisher requirements. You'll leave with practical knowledge and understanding to assist researchers with managing and sharing their research data effectively, with support from the University of California's resources. Date: Sept 10, 2025 Register in UC Learning Presented by David Minor & Reid Otsuji

Dates and location are subject to change.

Subscribe to the Postdoc listserv to be sent more information and how to register for these and all upcoming events. UCSD email address required for subscription.

Calendar of Events

View upcoming events, opportunities, and resources.

View the Calendar here