Evans I
Medical Research Council, 20 Park Crescent, London W1N 4AL, UK.
Sci Eng Ethics. 2000 Jan;6(1):91-4. doi: 10.1007/s11948-000-0027-x.
The UK's Medical Research Council (MRC) introduced a specific policy and procedure for inquiring into allegations of scientific misconduct in December 1997; previously cases had been considered under normal disciplinary procedures. The policy formally covers staff employed in MRC units, but those in receipt of MRC grants in universities and elsewhere are expected to operate under similar policies. The MRC's approach is stepwise: preliminary action; assessment to establish prima facie evidence of misconduct; formal investigation; sanctions; and appeal. Strict time limits apply at all stages. The procedure will be evaluated after two years. The indications so far are that the procedure is robust, and its clarity and transparency have been an asset to all parties. The MRC is also convinced that it is equally important to achieve a working culture that fosters integrity. Thus education and training in good research practices are fundamental to the prevention of research misconduct.
1997年12月，英国医学研究理事会（MRC）出台了一项针对科学不端行为指控进行调查的具体政策和程序；此前，此类案件是按照正常纪律程序处理的。该政策正式涵盖受雇于MRC各部门的工作人员，但在大学及其他机构接受MRC资助的人员也应遵循类似政策开展工作。MRC的处理方式分阶段进行：初步行动；评估以确立不当行为的初步证据；正式调查；制裁；以及上诉。各阶段均有严格的时间限制。该程序将在两年后进行评估。目前的迹象表明，该程序很健全，其清晰性和透明度对各方都很有帮助。MRC还坚信，营造一种促进诚信的工作文化同样重要。因此，良好研究实践的教育和培训对于预防研究不端行为至关重要。
