Responsible conduct of research
What is a responsible conduct of research?
Responsible research conduct encompasses a set of ethical principles and practices that guide researchers throughout their scientific careers. At QICSS, we adhere to the principles that guide the policies of the Fonds de recherche du Québec (FRQ) and the three federal granting agencies (SSHRC, CIHR and NSERC). We consider these principles to be essential for the preservation of scientific integrity, public trust and the promotion of high-quality research.
Our commitment to responsible research conduct is reflected in our clear and rigorous guidelines. We ensure that our research community respects confidentiality agreements, protects sensitive data with diligence, and uses information only for legitimate research purposes.
A responsible conduct of research carried out with confidential microdata
In addition to our commitment to responsible research conduct, we would like to highlight the importance of this approach in the specific context of working with confidential Statistics Canada microdata. Working with such data requires specific responsible and ethical conduct due to the sensitive and confidential nature of the data. Here are some specific guidelines for the research community at QICSS:
Respecting agreements and protocols
At QICSS, we attach the utmost importance to respecting the confidentiality agreements and protocols established by Statistics Canada for the access and use of confidential microdata. This means that each researcher must comply with the security and confidentiality conditions specified in his or her research contract. Each researcher is individually responsible for his or her ethical conduct and compliance with Statistics Canada guidelines.
Data security
To ensure the protection of confidential microdata, QICSS implements Statistics Canada’s advanced security protocols. We are committed to maintaining a secure environment, so as to avoid any risk of unauthorized disclosure.
Consent and confidentiality
Our commitment to confidentiality remains unwavering. Confidential microdata are treated by Statistics Canada with the utmost respect for individual privacy, using advanced anonymization techniques.
Responsible use and scientific integrity
We encourage our researchers to maintain the highest standards of scientific integrity. This means conducting transparent, honest and rigorous research, avoiding any manipulation or falsification of data.
Ethical collaborations
Research is often the fruit of collaboration between different people and institutions. We encourage ethical collaboration, based on mutual respect and fair recognition of contributions. This encourages a diversity of perspectives, stimulates innovation and contributes to solving complex problems.
Transparency and communication
Transparency in the use of microdata is essential. We encourage researchers to communicate clearly on methodology, potential limitations and results obtained, while respecting confidentiality requirements. In addition, they must disclose their methods, protocols, funding sources and potential conflicts of interest in a transparent manner. This enables peers and the public to understand and evaluate the research process.
Training and raising awareness
The research community at QICSS needs to be trained in appropriate practices for working with confidential microdata. Awareness of the importance of data confidentiality and research ethics is essential. We believe in the importance of constant awareness to maintain high standards.
Social responsibility
Researchers at QICSS must be aware of the potential impact of their research on society, and consider the ethical and social implications of their work. When confidential microdata are handled with responsible research conduct, they can provide valuable information for informed decision-making, effective policy formulation and in-depth understanding of complex social problems.
By adhering to these guidelines, the QICSS’s research community contributes to establishing an ethical, trustworthy and respectful research environment, thus fostering public confidence in scientific research and in its findings.