Ethical and Responsible Research

The ER2 program supports projects that focus on what constitutes or promotes responsible and ethical research in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The ER2 program promotes the development, improvement, and dissemination of responsible and ethical research practices and aims to build on organizational cultures that value and reward such practices. Proposers to the ER2 program may examine responsible and ethical research practices across one or more career stages. This can include, for example, the research practices of students, postdoctoral fellows, faculty, or practitioners. ER2 projects could seek to improve responsible and ethical research practices in teams, organizations, or communities, or between researchers and the public. ER2 projects may include the development of interventions that promote responsible and ethical research practices, including in multidisciplinary, inter-organizational, cross-sector, translational, or international contexts. An ER2 project can also identify challenges that undermine or erode responsible and ethical research practices in STEM fields and evaluate measures to prevent or mitigate such challenges. A comprehensive approach to responsible and ethical research not only influences individual behavior, but it also contributes to an inclusive, equitable, and respectful research culture. Thus, proposers could examine organizational or other factors that positively influence responsible and ethical research practices in STEM fields. Proposals from or involving substantial collaboration with organizations in EPSCoR-eligible jurisdictions, minority-serving institutions, women's colleges, or organizations primarily serving persons with disabilities are encouraged. Proposals that include international collaborations are encouraged if the unique resources, expertise, facilities, or locations of international partners enhance the merit of the proposed work. Please see the NSF PAPPG for guidance on international collaborations.