Engagement in Responsible Conduct of Research: A Descriptive Case Study of the Factors of Organizational Culture and Implementation Drivers That Influence Research Integrity Practice

Authors

Cortni Beth Romaine, George Washington University

Document Type

Dissertation

Date of Degree

5-18-2025

Primary Advisor

Joseph Bocchino, EdD, MBA

Keywords

Research integrity practice; organizational culture; Responsible Conduct of Research; cultural dynamics mode; implementation drivers framework

Abstract

This qualitative descriptive case study investigates the relationship between organizational culture and the Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) across multiple research institutions. Utilizing elements of the Cultural Dynamics Model and the Implementation Drivers Framework, the study examines how institutional structures and cultural norms shape research integrity practices. Data collection involved in-depth interviews with faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and graduate students, as well as an artifact review of institutional policies, training resources, and guidance for research best practices.

Findings revealed three key themes: (1) Microculture Experiences, where RCR engagement is largely dictated by localized lab cultures, with principal investigators (PIs) playing a pivotal role in setting research integrity standards; (2) Institutional Priorities and Expectations, where organizational emphasis on productivity and funding often conflicts with ethical research practices, leading to inconsistent enforcement of RCR policies; and (3) Culture of Compliance, which highlights the limitations of regulatory-driven approaches that prioritize procedural adherence over fostering a genuine commitment to ethical research. Additionally, the study identified barriers such as power imbalances between faculty and trainees, fear of retaliation for reporting misconduct, and the impact of immigration status on international researchers’ willingness to challenge unethical practices.

A key outcome of this research is the development of the Ethical Ecosystem framework, which provides actionable recommendations for institutions to strengthen RCR engagement. This framework emphasizes the need for tailored RCR education, enhanced mentorship structures, and institutional reforms to balance compliance with proactive integrity-building initiatives. The findings of this study have implications for policy development, targeted training and education, and future research aimed at fostering a more supportive and ethically driven research environment

Comments

©2025 by Cortni Romaine. All rights reserved.

Recommended Citation

Romaine, Cortni Beth, "Engagement in Responsible Conduct of Research: A Descriptive Case Study of the Factors of Organizational Culture and Implementation Drivers That Influence Research Integrity Practice" (2025). Doctor of Philosophy in Translational Health Sciences Dissertations. Paper 36.
https://hsrc.himmelfarb.gwu.edu/smhs_crl_dissertations/36

Open Access

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