Research Ethics and Society

As an epidemiologist you have to be able to reflect on social and ethical responsibilities linked to the application of your knowledge and judgements. Both in the design and conduct of research, as well as in the discussion, interpretation, and communication of research results, ethical considerations always play a role. The course aims to introduce you to theory, logical reasoning, and case studies, in the ethics of experimentation on human subjects, international research, and research on children and other vulnerable populations.

Also the role of epidemiological research within society is discussed. In particular you will be asked to formulate your personal view and ambitions within the field.

By the end of the course, you should be able to:

• Discern the morally salient dimensions of a research project, and come to a well-considered judgment about the acceptability of such a project
• Reflect on moral dilemmas for researchers and Research Ethics Committees, and be able to systematically analyze such dilemmas
• Weigh the various arguments involved, and work towards a well-reasoned position or decision

Our courses are aimed at clinical researchers, nurses, general practitioners, and other health professionals who want to improve their skills in epidemiology, statistics and (clinical) research.

1 week, fulltime (face to face)

There will be contact hours in the morning, while the afternoon may require some time for independent study or group assignments.

On the last day of the course there are group presentations. Besides the presentations, participants have to make a daily quiz.

General questions

For general questions, please contact:

Content questions

For specific questions about the course content, please contact:

To enroll in this course, you need:

• Basic principles of Epidemiology (course Introduction to Epidemiology)
• Knowledge of different study designs in epidemiology (course Study Design in Etiologic Research)
• Preferred: Clinical Epidemiology (course Clinical Epidemiology)
• Sufficient proficiency in English reading and writing

Please note that this course is part of an existing program within the Graduate School of Life Sciences. Tuitition fees may alter during the year.