How do you make your research responsible and innovative?

2 Follow the principles

Responsible research is guided by a set of principles that ensure the quality, integrity, and accountability of your research process and results. These principles include honesty, fairness, respect, care, and excellence. You should follow these principles throughout your research cycle, from planning to dissemination, and adhere to the ethical standards and codes of conduct of your discipline, institution, and funder. You should also acknowledge and address any conflicts of interest, biases, or limitations that may affect your research.

3 Engage with others

Responsible research is not done in isolation, but in collaboration and dialogue with others. You should engage with your peers, mentors, partners, and users of your research, and seek their feedback, input, and support. You should also communicate your research findings and implications to a wider audience, and make them accessible and understandable to different groups. You should use appropriate and effective methods and channels to share your research, such as publications, presentations, podcasts, blogs, or social media.

4 Be creative and flexible

Innovative research is not afraid to explore new ideas, methods, and perspectives, and to challenge existing assumptions and paradigms. You should be creative and flexible in your research approach, and open to learning from failures and mistakes. You should also be willing to adapt and adjust your research plan and goals according to the changing circumstances and feedback. You should use tools such as brainstorming, prototyping, testing, and iteration to help you generate and refine your research ideas.

5 Evaluate the impact

Responsible and innovative research aims to create positive and lasting impact for society and the environment. You should evaluate the impact of your research, both during and after your research project, and measure the outcomes and outputs of your research against your intended goals and indicators. You should also reflect on the lessons learned and the challenges faced in your research, and share your insights and recommendations with others. You should use tools such as logic models, indicators, surveys, interviews, or case studies to help you evaluate the impact of your research.

6 Learn and improve

Research is a continuous and dynamic process that requires constant learning and improvement. You should seek opportunities to develop your research skills and competencies, and to update your knowledge and awareness of the latest trends and developments in your research field. You should also seek feedback and advice from others, and incorporate them into your research practice. You should use tools such as self-assessment, peer review, mentoring, or training to help you learn and improve your research.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?