Module 19: Peer Review and Scientific Ethics

Understand the peer review process and the ethical principles that guide responsible scientific conduct.

✍️ Understanding Peer Review

Peer review maintains quality and credibility in science. Learn how reviewers evaluate manuscripts and how to respond to feedback as an author.

  • Single-blind vs. double-blind review
  • Writing constructive and fair reviews
  • Interpreting reviewer comments

⚖️ Ethics in Scientific Research

Ethical science goes beyond compliance—it’s foundational. Learn to navigate tricky scenarios with clarity and accountability.

  • Fabrication, falsification, and plagiarism (FFP)
  • Conflict of interest and disclosure
  • Data sharing and transparency

🤝 Authorship and Collaboration

Teamwork requires clear expectations. Understand how authorship is determined and how to resolve disputes respectfully.

  • ICMJE authorship guidelines
  • Co-first authorship and contributorship models
  • Navigating lab hierarchies and mentor relationships

🌟 COMPASS Integration

  • Knowledge: Peer review structures, ethics standards
  • Skills: Review writing, ethical decision-making
  • Character: Integrity, respect, responsibility
  • Meta-Learning: Learning through ethical reflection

📚 References & Resources

  • Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) Guidelines
  • Resnik, 2011. What is Ethics in Research & Why is it Important?
  • Colab: "Ethical Case Study Discussions"

✅ Assessment

  • Write a mock peer review of a provided abstract
  • Identify ethical issues in a sample scenario
  • Reflect on a time you faced a question of integrity