INORMS Congress Madrid 2025

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Responsible Research Impact

Responsible Research Impact: Towards an Ethics for Making a Difference

Author

LR
Dr Louise Rutt

Co-Authors

  • P
    Professor James Daybell
  • P
    Professor Mark Reed
  • D
    Dr Eric Jensen

Conference

INORMS Congress Madrid 2025

Format: Oral 20 Minutes

Topic: 9. Responsibility, Ethics, and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in Research and Innovation

Abstract

As the quest for demonstrable research impact grows, the need for robust ethics is coming to the fore. This session outlines the essential elements of an ethical approach to research impact, drawing on a broad review of existing literature and participatory workshops. We propose a dynamic framework that supports researchers and institutions in navigating the complex ethical landscape of impact generation, ensuring that the pursuit of impact remains aligned with core ethical principles and societal benefits. The session also highlights practical tools and initiatives that can aid in embedding these ethical considerations into everyday research activities.

This session will provide attendees with a clear understanding of where ethics for impact require further intervention and support at both the institutional and researcher level, as well as providing them with tools for achieving this. This moves research impact on from responsible innovation frameworks, to provide more targeted and bespoke tools which have greater consideration of the fuller context of impact (e.g. in relation to audit and evidence requirements).