Abstract:
Instances of research misconduct reported in the lay and scientific literature as well as international efforts
to encourage research integrity and the responsible conduct of research are currently receiving considerable
attention. In South Africa, however, the topic has not featured prominently in public debate and clear evidence
of a national, coordinated effort to address the problem of research misconduct seems to be lacking.
Given increasing globalisation of research efforts, the need exists to promote standardised approaches to
interpretation and implementation of the principles and values that underlie responsible conduct of research
as well as to create guidelines and structures to promote integrity in research in the country. We explore
the notions of research misconduct and research integrity, focusing on initiatives that promote responsible
conduct of research, and propose a framework for the South African context.
