Teaching research ethics: it takes more than good science to make a good scientist

The American Chemical Society (ACS) Committee on Professional Training has developed teaching programs and practices that provide moral and ethical instruction for professional development. The ACS Committee has developed guidelines, and many colleges and universities have implemented these recommended programs and practices. Ethical instruction is essential to maintain the integrity and quality of the research enterprise as most university research is performed by graduate and postdoctoral students. Several federal agencies, including the US National Institute of Health (NIH) and National Science Foundation (NSF), have encourages such training in the responsible conduct of research (RCR). Uniform decisions can be precluded by providing information on the expected standards of behavior, and poor decision can be averted by providing an opportunity to develop and exercise logical ethical thoughts.