Perspectives on research ethics

During her research sabbatical, Prof. Dr. Hella von Unger explores how research ethics are understood and practiced in different contexts. Taking a critical social science perspective, the project looks at how established, biomedically shaped models of research ethics are being rethought and complemented by more relational and community-based approaches.

A particular focus lies on Indigenous perspectives, including Māori and First Nations, and their contributions to reshaping ethical frameworks. Research ethics is approached not only as a formal system of rules, but as a practice shaped by social relations, institutional settings, and different ways of knowing.

The project follows an exploratory ethnographic approach, combining conversations with researchers, community representatives, and other experts with participant observation in Aotearoa New Zealand and Canada. It aims to generate comparative insights, strengthen international exchange, and contribute to more reflexive and context-sensitive discussions on research ethics in Germany and Europe.

This project is self-funded.