The Future of Research Integrity - Digital technologies are transforming the publishing industry and are capable of increasing access to scientific knowledge. Despite this, it is important to be cognizant of the technological challenges present and to collaboratively work with all stakeholders to maintain standards of research integrity in all aspects of the research process. Movement towards safeguarding and embracing the research environment through supportive mentoring, as well as diversity and inclusivity in science is fundamental to address impediments to and understand the applications of RCR education, as well as to nurture healthy research environments. In order to create and sustain a robust research ecosystem, we must analyze the factors that influence change into research practice. To this end, the University of South Alabama proposes to host a conference addressing the impact of the meteoric acceleration of science and technology on research integrity. The conference will be centered around three focus areas: • Framework to support research integrity: focus on publication ethics, FAIR data, and artificial intelligence interface; • Fostering research integrity amidst rapid technological changes: implications for the way science is supported, practiced, conducted and communicated; • Safeguarding integrity while embracing change in research practices: cultivating and sustaining an ethical research environment. These three areas are essential to the ethical conduct of research. They represent interrelated issues for evaluating changes to RCR and the ethical considerations we’re encountering. This rapid evolution of science and technology spans across topics in data publishing, artificial intelligence and automation, revolutionary developments in research integrity standards, and fostering inclusive environments. What’s in store for the future and how do we accommodate such rapid change? The University of South Alabama will collaborate with statewide and regional academic universities to recruit conference attendees. The primary outcome is for conference participants to be better informed about the effects of technological change and perceived barriers within the research ecosystem and to be better prepared to cultivate a climate that advances responsible and ethical research. A secondary outcome will be to assess movements towards fostering healthy research climates, such as mentoring and inclusivity in our institutions. To effectively measure outcomes, we will conduct a pre and post survey of conference attendees. The qualitative assessment tools will be developed in consultation with the University’s Office of Institutional Effectiveness. We propose to expand the scope and impact of our post-conference assessment activities to capture attendees’ feedback, assess attitudes, and to identify changes that may be required in educational and training programs. In order to create and sustain a robust research ecosystem, we must analyze the factors that influence change into research practice. Digital technologies are transforming the publishing industry and are capable of increasing access to scientific knowledge.
