Values and Ethics
At BIBF we believe that all aspects of research right from project design to submission of results for review needs to be done in an ethical and structured manner for the results to be valid. BIBF research code of conduct and ethics provides the guidelines for the responsible and ethical conduct of research at BIBF. All of our researchers are required to abide by this code of conduct in conducting any form of research for BIBF. The code of conduct is taken from Shamoo, A. and Resnik, D., Responsible Conduct of Research, 2nd ed., New York: Oxford University Press, 2009.

Honesty
Strive for honesty in all research endeavors. Honestly report data, results, methods and procedures, and publication status. Do not fabricate, falsify, or misrepresent data. Do not deceive colleagues, granting agencies, or the public.

Objectivity
Strive to avoid bias in experimental design, data analysis, data interpretation, peer review, personnel decisions, grant writing, expert testimony, and other aspects of research where objectivity is expected or required. Avoid or minimize bias or self-deception. Disclose personal or financial interests that may affect research.

Integrity
Keep your promises and agreements; act with sincerity; strive for consistency of thoughts and action.

Carefulness
Avoid careless errors and negligence; carefully and critically examine your own work and the work of your peers. Keep good records of research activities, such as data collection, research design, and correspondence with agencies or journals.

Openness
Share data, results, ideas, tools, resources. Be open to criticism and new ideas.

Respect for Intellectual Property
Honor patents, copyrights, and other forms of intellectual property. Do not use unpublished data, methods, or results without permission. Give credit where credit is due. Give proper acknowledgement or credit for all contributions to research. Never plagiarize.

Confidentiality
Protect confidential communications, such as papers or grants submitted for publication.

Responsible Publication
Publish in order to advance research, not to advance just your own career. Avoid wasteful and duplicative publication.

Social Responsibility
Strive to promote social good and prevent or mitigate social harms through research, public education, and advocacy.

Competence
Maintain and improve your own professional competence and expertise through lifelong education and learning.

Legality
Know and obey relevant laws and institutional and governmental policies.