Research Ethics

Authors must describe the ethical safeguards applicable to their research. For studies involving people, report ethics approval where required, the approving institution and reference number, or a reasoned explanation of exemption. Describe informed consent and the protection of participant identities. Obtain specific consent to publish identifiable images, quotations, or information where required.

Consider power differences when recruiting students, employees, clients, or other dependent participants. Do not publish confidential business information or community-held knowledge without authority. For research involving Indigenous communities or vulnerable groups, address relevant permissions, community expectations, and potential harms.

Data, images, and analyses must accurately represent the research. Disclose material image processing and methods needed to interpret findings. State data access restrictions and do not release information that violates consent, privacy, legal obligations, or community rights. Explain applicable animal ethics oversight if the study involves animals.

Editors may request evidence of approval, consent procedures, permissions, or data provenance. An approval number does not substitute for an assessment of the research described. Concerns are handled under the publication ethics policy.