Module 3: Conducting Research Responsibly – Protecting Yourself, Your Research, and Your University

3.6 Research confidentiality

The obligation to preserve confidentiality stems from the principle of autonomy or respect for persons. In a research context this is not only the data obtained on or from individuals but extends to research findings where any confidentiality agreement may apply. As a researcher, you are required to:

• Keep in confidence any data obtained from study subjects where an assurance of confidentiality has been given
• Develop confidentiality agreements in consultation with your university
• Honour the privacy of individuals and the confidentiality of research materials in the manner of storage and maintenance
• Maintain confidentiality in any communications (oral and written) about the research.