What is a significant function of institutional policies related to RCR?

Institutional policies related to Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) primarily serve to provide guidelines for ethical research practices within institutions. These policies are critical for establishing a framework that encourages integrity, accountability, and transparency in the research process. They often encompass a variety of issues such as data management, conflicts of interest, authorship, and the treatment of human and animal subjects.

By outlining clear expectations and standards, these policies help to foster a culture of ethical behavior among researchers, ensuring that research findings are reliable and credible. This, in turn, contributes to the overall advancement of knowledge and public trust in the scientific community. Through training and resources provided by these policies, institutions aim to educate researchers about ethical dilemmas they may encounter, equipping them with the necessary tools to navigate complex situations responsibly.