Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct

The Society for In Vitro Biology (SIVB) is a non-profit professional society of scientists, researchers and biotechnologists.  SIVB is devoted to fostering the exchange of knowledge of in vitro biology of cells, tissues and organs from both plant and animals (including humans). The focus is on biological research, development, and applications of significance to science and society. SIVB’s mission is accomplished through the Society’s two world class journals and newsletter; national and local conferences, meetings and workshops; and through support of teaching initiatives in cooperation with educational institutions.

This Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct (The Code) is a summary of what SIVB defines as essential ethical behavior for research professionals. These principles and standards should be used as guidelines when examining everyday scientific and professional activities. Most of the Ethical Standards are written broadly in order to apply to scientists in varied roles, and the application of an ethical standard may vary depending on the context. This Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct is not exhaustive.

Compliance with the Code is a requirement for initial and continued SIVB membership.  SIVB members affirm their endorsement of the Code and acknowledge their commitment to uphold its principles by joining and subsequently renewing their membership in SIVB. Violations of the Code may result in sanctions by SIVB. This Code was adopted to provide clarity of expected behavior accorded to SIVB members necessary to protect the integrity, and ensure the efficacy, of the Society.

This Code is intended to be used by SIVB members in conjunction with applicable national and international frameworks that govern the practice of in vitro and biotechnological research, such as professional license requirements, ethical principles, guidelines, and laws and regulations applicable to research, including, but not limited to, the Declaration of Helsinki, Belmont Report, ICH GCP, US Codes of Federal Regulations, US Animal Welfare Act, US Public Health Service Policy on the Humane Care of Laboratory Animals, WHO “Ethical Standards and Procedures for Research with Human Beings,” and UK Research Governance Framework. The term “Research Professional” as used herein encompasses many job titles, disciplines and duties within the profession of in vitro and biotechnological research. For the purpose of this Code, the term shall include anyone involved in the design, conduct, reporting, review and oversight of in vitro and biotechnological research who is an SIVB member.

Members of the Society for In Vitro Biology, (referred to herein as “Members”) shall abide by and conform to the following standards of Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct:

1. 1. Maintain objectivity, integrity, and competence in meeting the highest standards of the profession. Respect the intellectual property of others (collaborators, students, authors of papers and grants) and acknowledge appropriate credit to sources of ideas used in research or product development projects that can lead to the granting of patents. Abstain from evaluations of grants or manuscripts when past associations would compromise judgements.
   2. Respect the use of animal subjects used in all research and development projects according to all applicable laws (including the Animal Welfare Act) and regulations, including the latest version of the U.S. Public Health Service Policy on the Humane Care of Laboratory Animals. Adhere to projects and procedures approved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee.
   3. Respect the use of human subjects in all research, development projects and clinical trials according to all applicable laws and regulations. Adhere to all guidelines of procedures approved by the researcher’s Institutional Review Board (IRB).
   4. Adhere to professionally accepted guidelines and standards (i.e. avoid sensationalism, inaccuracies, or false or misleading claims) in informing both the scientific community and the general public about research results or professional services.
   5. Adhere to the standards as defined in the SIVB Meeting Code of Conduct.
   6. Avoid betrayal of public trust in the broader scientific community in any referral system; for example, if a conflict of interest exists, or if the referral would inordinately exclude others.
   7. Expose fraud and professional misconduct whenever found.
   8. Promote equal access to employment, educational opportunity and professional assistance by avoiding discrimination based upon race, creed, gender, religion, national origin, or age. Act civilly and with respect towards all people.
   9. Do not speak on behalf of the Society without written authorization from the Board of Directors.

Society officers and members of the Board of Directors, given the special responsibilities and obligations associated with their leadership positions, will adhere to these additional standards:

1. 1. • Participate actively in assigned duties in a timely manner
      • Exercise professional courtesy and civility at all times to other Board Members, other Society Members, and Society Business Office staff.
      • Act only within the parameters of designated duties.
      • Act only according to Board consensus [when Board approval is prerequisite for action].