Summary: ethical issues in international and interdisciplinary collaborations

On Tuesday 28 April 2026, we hosted the first roundtable event of 2025–2026. This roundtable brought together participants with expertise in research ethics, integrity, governance and collaborative research from institutions across the UK and internationally to explore the ethical issues arising in international and interdisciplinary collaborations. 

International and interdisciplinary research collaborations play an increasingly important role in addressing complex scientific, societal and global challenges. By bringing together diverse expertise, perspectives and resources, these collaborations can generate innovative approaches and produce research with significant impact. 

However, collaborations can also create ethical challenges that are difficult to anticipate and navigate, particularly where partners work across different disciplinary traditions, institutional structures, regulatory environments and cultural contexts. The roundtable considered these challenges and explored how researchers, institutions, funders and policymakers can support responsible and effective collaborative practice. 

The summary report captures the main insights from the expert discussion, examples of emerging and promising practice, and practical recommendations to help strengthen the ethical foundations of international and interdisciplinary research.