Professors involved: Daniela Ovadia (University of Pavia)

Course learning outcomes/abstract: In an era where scientific integrity and responsible research are under the spotlight, understanding the ethical dimensions of research and the principles of effective science communication is no longer optional—it is essential. Now in its 9th edition, this interdisciplinary course is one of the first of its kind in Italy and continues to set the standard in integrating Research Ethics and Research Communication for doctoral students. This course is open to PhD candidates from all disciplines—from life sciences to engineering, social sciences to the humanities—fostering a vibrant, interdisciplinary learning environment. The diversity of participants enhances discussion, encourages critical thinking, and prepares students to navigate complex ethical issues across different fields of inquiry.Key Topics and Syllabus • Foundations of Research Ethics: Ethical theories and principles; from general ethics to bioethics; discipline-specific codes of conduct • Ethical Oversight: Role of ethics committees, informed consent, and public trust; understanding the European Research Ethics Framework • Challenging Ethical Dilemmas in EU-Funded Research: Embryonic and stem cell research, research involving vulnerable populations, AI, dual-use technologies, environmental risk, and military applications • Publication Ethics: Authorship disputes, responsible publishing practices, Open Access, and the ethical use of generative AI in writing • Data Ethics and Governance: Data management, privacy, and compliance with GDPR • Institutional Responsibility: The evolving role of universities in upholding and promoting research integrity • Science and Society: Social and cultural impacts of science; ethics of big data and emerging technologies • Science and Discrimination: Examining biases in science related to race, gender, and epistemic inequality • Research Misconduct: Understanding fraud, plagiarism, and questionable research practices; legal and institutional consequences • Sexual Harassment in Academia: Identifying, preventing, and addressing misconduct • Science Communication: Ethical responsibilities of researchers as communicators; the role of experts in public discourse • Citizen Science and Public Engagement: Embracing the Third Mission of universities—bridging science and society through active engagement

Goals: By the end of the course, participants will be able to: • Recognize and critically assess ethical issues in their own research and across disciplines • Understand the legal and institutional frameworks governing research ethics in Europe • Communicate science responsibly and effectively to diverse audiences • Navigate contemporary challenges in authorship, data management, open science, and the use of AI • Contribute to fostering a research culture based on integrity, transparency, and public engagement. This course is ideal for doctoral students seeking to enhance the ethical integrity and societal relevance of their research. It provides both a theoretical foundation and practical tools for navigating the evolving landscape of modern science

Number of hours and planning:  21 hours

Period: Feb 3, 10, 17 – March 10, 17, 31 – Apr 7, (14 as a back-up session if needed) 2026 from 9 to 12 AM

Delivery mode and location: online, link to connect: https://unipv-it.zoom.us/j/92984445900?pwd=66feK1t4UMHLtAvyiOjiiuZY1pDVci.1

Registration: https://forms.gle/beAXTCnKvV8ZCutK9

Language: english

Evaluation criterial: 75% of attendance; final short essay on the lesson learnt

Credits (CFU): 5

Depliant