The three-day workshop was on the responsible conduct of research and laboratory practices for postdoctoral and postgraduate students, laboratory managers and technicians within and outside the university.

The workshop was held in partnership with two Iowa State University academics, namely Prof Larry J Halverson and Prof Gwyn A Beattie, on 13, 16 and 17 October.  The aim was, among others, to promote efficient and transparent laboratory management practices, promote professionalism in the workplace and a healthy work/life balance, promote an academic environment conducive to effective research and to foster ethical problem-solving skills.

Speaking on the importance of sustainable research conduct, Prof Olubukola Babalola, director of the research nich area, Food Security and Safety, said, “Research is one of the principal functions of any university community. The NWU expects researchers to be honest and ethical in the conduct of their research and transfer of knowledge to others.”

In closing, she emphasised that as an institution of higher learning, the NWU seeks to pursue and promote an environment in which high standards of personal conduct and research ethics are encouraged and expected from researchers and students.