How do you maintain trust and respect in research relationships?

Research is a collaborative endeavor that requires trust and respect among all the parties involved, such as researchers, participants, funders, and stakeholders. Trust and respect are essential for ensuring the quality, integrity, and impact of research, as well as for fostering a positive and productive research culture. However, building and maintaining trust and respect in research relationships can be challenging, especially in complex and dynamic contexts. In this article, you will learn some practical tips on how to cultivate trust and respect in your research activities, based on the principles of research ethics and integrity.

1 Define your roles and expectations

One of the first steps to establish trust and respect in research relationships is to clarify your roles and expectations with your research partners. This means having clear and transparent communication about the goals, scope, methods, responsibilities, and outcomes of the research project. You should also discuss and agree on the ethical standards, norms, and values that will guide your research conduct, such as honesty, fairness, accountability, and confidentiality. By defining your roles and expectations, you can avoid misunderstandings, conflicts, and ethical dilemmas that may arise during the research process.

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Chukwuanugo Ogbuagu, M.D., MS, Ph.D.

Physician Scientist | Epidemiologist | Patient Safety | Neuroscience | Implementation Science
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Some of the core values that would earn, maintain and respect would include uninterrupted two-way communication with intent at listening to understand your colleague. Respect and empathy would foster trust in the relationship. I would add cultural diplomacy to accommodate all staff and provide platform for open engagements on one shared vision and goal.

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2 Respect diversity and inclusion

Another important aspect of trust and respect in research relationships is to respect the diversity and inclusion of your research partners. This means acknowledging and appreciating the different perspectives, backgrounds, experiences, and contributions that they bring to the research project. You should also ensure that your research practices are sensitive and responsive to the cultural, social, and environmental contexts of your research partners. For example, you should seek informed consent from your research participants, respect their autonomy and dignity, and protect their privacy and confidentiality. By respecting diversity and inclusion, you can enhance the relevance, validity, and impact of your research.

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3 Communicate effectively and regularly

A key factor for maintaining trust and respect in research relationships is to communicate effectively and regularly with your research partners. This means keeping them informed and updated about the progress, challenges, and results of the research project. You should also provide and receive constructive feedback, acknowledge and address any issues or concerns, and celebrate and share any achievements or successes. Effective and regular communication can help you build rapport, mutual understanding, and collaboration with your research partners.

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Raj Stanley

Director @ Rivermind Consulting | Researcher | Research management Coach
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Collaboratively define the set of common guiding factors that includes the ethics, university and country regulations, how to collaborate, how to communicate, how to handle IPs, data etc., Apart from this, Sharing some of the undocumented practices that we follow • Throw away the funda of “First-time right” when it comes to research. This may work in Development but not in research • Encourage and celebrate the “Trial and Errors” . Special meetings arranged to share the failures & what we learn from them. Afterall in research the more failures happen at early stage, the more it is effective. • All research collaborators are equally respected for their knowledge and their dedication • Continuously monitor and manage the Risk appetite

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4 Recognize and acknowledge contributions

One of the ways to show trust and respect in research relationships is to recognize and acknowledge the contributions of your research partners. This means giving credit and attribution to the individuals or organizations that have contributed to the research project, such as by co-authoring publications, presenting findings, or sharing resources. You should also respect the intellectual property rights, ownership, and interests of your research partners, such as by obtaining permission, citing sources, or sharing benefits. Recognizing and acknowledging contributions can help you foster a culture of appreciation, recognition, and respect in your research community.

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5 Learn and improve from feedback

Another way to demonstrate trust and respect in research relationships is to learn and improve from feedback. This means being open and receptive to the feedback that you receive from your research partners, such as by listening, reflecting, and acting on it. You should also seek and provide feedback to your research partners, such as by asking questions, offering suggestions, or sharing insights. Learning and improving from feedback can help you enhance the quality, integrity, and impact of your research, as well as your own professional development.

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Hamidreza Mokhtari, Ph.D.

Founder and CEO at Tuskano Innovation Club
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While providing feedback could be useful, rhetoric is very important. A negative attitude toward researchers may conclude in losing the relationship. So having a positive attitude leads to a constructive research cooperation.

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6 Be honest and accountable

The last but not least tip to maintain trust and respect in research relationships is to be honest and accountable. This means being truthful and transparent about your research conduct, such as by reporting your findings accurately, disclosing any conflicts of interest, or admitting any errors or limitations. You should also be accountable for your research conduct, such as by following the ethical guidelines, complying with the regulations, or addressing any complaints or allegations. Being honest and accountable can help you uphold the reputation, credibility, and trustworthiness of your research and yourself.

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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?

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How do you maintain trust and respect in research relationships?

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1 Define your roles and expectations

2 Respect diversity and inclusion

3 Communicate effectively and regularly

4 Recognize and acknowledge contributions

5 Learn and improve from feedback

6 Be honest and accountable

7 Here’s what else to consider

Research Management

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