Good research conduct

Abstract

To the paediatrician setting out on a research career it may seem that bureaucracy and rules exist to get in the way of, rather than to enable, clinical research. However, the presence of these rules and their complexity exist because clinical researchers have a unique responsibility to both science and patients. In commenting on scientific misconduct, Richard Horton (Editor, The Lancet) wrote "the chain of trust that links the patient to doctor, and doctor to researcher, is fragile. Research evidence strengthens this chain whereas fraud weakens it": a statement which emphasises that research, when done well, should be a positive experience for all participants. Paediatric clinical research is certainly difficult to perform, and may indeed be currently undervalued. But its potential to impact directly on the care of children, in itself, provides sufficient reward if performed to the highest possible standard.