Statement: Code of Conduct for Scientists –Revised Version- (2013), nan

What is this about?

Code of Conduct for Scientists – Revised Version (2013) is Japan’s national framework on research integrity, published in Japanese, and designed to guide researchers, institutions, funders, and journals. It formalises principles such as honesty, accountability, professional courtesy, and stewardship of resources, linking them to reproducibility, credibility, and public trust in science. The Code specifies good practice in planning, conducting, publishing, and reviewing research, covering authorship, citation, conflicts of interest, data transparency, supervision, and peer review. It outlines procedures for handling misconduct, ensuring due process, proportional sanctions, and opportunities for learning. Education is central, with training for students and staff to embed integrity as a core professional skill. The Code also addresses emerging issues like data management, open science, and digital dissemination, offering tools such as checklists and templates to support daily practice. By aligning with international standards, it connects Japanese policy to global norms, reinforcing collaboration, inclusivity, and trust.

Why is this important?

Statement: Code of Conduct for Scientists –Revised Version- distils national expectations for research integrity in Japan and clarifies what researchers and institutions in Japan need to do to comply. It reduces ambiguity, aligns local practice with international norms, and offers actionable steps that improve transparency, reproducibility, and equitable access. For policy leads, it is a benchmark; for authors and administrators, it is a practical checklist. Published by nan in 2013, it is a credible reference to cite in institutional policies, training, and grant documentation.

For whom is this important?

All stakeholders in research

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