Ethical publishing principles cover every stage of the research process, from project conceptualisation to participant consent. So, what are the key considerations for pathology professionals looking to publish research that is accurate, respectful and a positive experience for all involved?

In this episode of The Pathology Report, host and microbiologist Dr Ian Gassiep is joined by Professor Wendy Cooper, anatomical pathologist and Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the RCPA’s peer-reviewed journal Pathology and Dr Hema Urban, Managing Editor of Pathology.

Together, they unpack the key ethical considerations they come across in scientific publishing, and what prospective authors need to be aware of.

• Authorship vs acknowledgment, and how these terms are used to indicate the level of research involvement.
• What the order of authorship means, and the responsibilities and benefits associated with being a lead author.
• Recognising the potential harms of colonial and Eurocentric approaches to research, and the need to respect Indigenous Data Sovereignty and local researchers.
• What informed participant consent entails, and the mistakes to avoid.
• Steps to take to ensure the anonymity of patients, including for rare case studies where published information may inadvertently breach confidentiality.
• What needs to be declared when it comes to using AI, and the importance of accountability.

As mentioned in the conversation, mentorship and seeking guidance from editors is an important part of the publishing process. Regardless of your career stage, if you have any questions around ethical publishing please get in touch with the Pathology journal team.

Episode links

• Pathology journal
• International Committee of Medical Journal Editors recommendations for the Conduct, Reporting, Editing, and Publication of Scholarly work in Medical Journals.
• Good Clinical Practice Guidelines

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The Pathology Report is produced by the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia and is part of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network.

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