Melbourne ResearchHuman Ethics

Why human ethics is important

The relationship between researchers and research participants is the ground on which human research is conducted. The values of respect for human beings, research merit and integrity, justice, and beneficence, help to shape that relationship as one of trust, mutual responsibility and ethical equality.

National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research (NHMRC, 2007)
The National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research (NHMRC) sets out the  national guidelines for ethical conduct in research involving human participants. Australian human research ethics committees use these guidelines as the basis for approving research, and researchers should design their projects in accordance with them. The purpose of the Statement is to promote ethically good research that accords participants with the respect and protection that is due to them, and is of benefit to the wider community. The Statement clarifies the responsibilities of researchers in the ethical design, conduct and dissemination of results of human research.

The University of Melbourne is also committed to the highest standard of integrity in research. The University's Code of Conduct for Research prescribes the standards of responsible and ethical conduct expected of all persons engaged in research at the University.

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