STP Professional Practice & Ethics 2

Question 1

A scientist discovers a minor error in a published paper after it has been cited 50 times. What is the most appropriate course of action?

Accepted Answer

Contact the journal editor to issue a correction

Answer

The appropriate action is to notify the journal editor so a formal correction or erratum can be issued, maintaining the integrity of the scientific record.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes the principle of 'non-maleficence' in research ethics?

Accepted Answer

Avoiding harm to participants

Answer

Non-maleficence means 'do no harm' and requires researchers to avoid causing unnecessary harm to participants or the public.

Question 3

During a clinical trial, an interim analysis reveals unexpected serious adverse events. What should the principal investigator do first?

Accepted Answer

Immediately inform the ethics committee and regulatory authorities

Answer

Unexpected serious adverse events must be immediately reported to the ethics committee and regulatory authorities to protect participant safety.

Question 4

A colleague asks you to list them as a co-author on a paper despite their only contribution being providing lab space. What should you do?

Accepted Answer

Decline and offer acknowledgement instead

Answer

Authorship requires a substantive intellectual contribution; providing only lab space warrants acknowledgement, not co-authorship.

Question 5

What is the primary purpose of a Data Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) in a clinical trial?

Accepted Answer

To independently review accumulating data and recommend stopping if necessary

Answer

A DSMB independently reviews accumulating safety and efficacy data and can recommend early termination to protect participants.

(STP) Scientist Training Programme Practice Test

(STP) Scientist Training Programme Practice Test

STP Professional Practice & Ethics 2