Toward an “ecosystems” approach to responsible conduct of research (RCR): A multi-stakeholder framework for collaborative accountability and policy recommendations on research integrity

Abstract

Background: Initiatives in responsible conduct of research (RCR) have often been ineffective, since they are based on several problematic assumptions. These include that (1) integrity issues in biomedical research serve as paradigm cases for those in research in general, (2) the primary cause of research misconduct is individual researchers’ behavior, (3) educational interventions alone can prevent research misconduct, and (4) RCR can be addressed at the level of institutions. However, the research ecosystem comprises various partners, including funding agencies, research institutions, professional societies, and accreditation bodies. Methods: This study employs a review of literature and critical reflection to analyze how partners comprising the research ecosystem shape research environments, making policy recommendations on that basis. Results: Research misconduct should be understood as resulting from misaligned incentives throughout the research ecosystem. Just as institutional cultures shape individuals, the policies of partners comprising the research ecosystem shape institutional cultures. An ecosystems approach to RCR consists in understanding how partners comprising the research ecosystem depend on each other, using these relations to ensure each holds the others accountable to promote the production of valid and reliable research. Conclusion: Viewing RCR through an ecosystems lens highlights the need for coordinated accountability among research partners.