If a researcher suspects non-compliance with ethical standards, what should they do?

When a researcher suspects non-compliance with ethical standards, reporting their concerns to their institution’s Institutional Review Board (IRB) is the best course of action. The IRB is tasked with ensuring that research involving human subjects is conducted in an ethical manner and in accordance with established guidelines. By reporting to the IRB, the researcher initiates a process that will lead to a thorough review of the situation, safeguarding the rights and welfare of participants and promoting accountability within the research community.

This approach is crucial as it not only addresses the suspected non-compliance but also helps uphold the integrity of the research process and protects participants from potential harm. The IRB has the authority and ethical responsibility to investigate such issues formally, provide guidance, and potentially rectify any unethical behavior.

Ignoring the situation could allow unethical practices to continue unchecked, which poses significant risks to participants and undermines the research field. Conducting a private investigation could compromise the integrity of the research or lead to conflicts of interest if not handled through established protocols. Consulting external stakeholders may not provide the immediate action needed and could result in miscommunication or delayed response to serious ethical breaches. Therefore, involving the IRB ensures that the situation is managed appropriately and in accordance with institutional policies and ethical standards.