Incorporation of Responsible Conduct of Research Education in Brazilian Graduate Pharmacy Programs: A Qualitative Assessment.

Education in Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) is essential for fostering a culture of research integrity. This study identifies the extent and content of RCR education in Brazilian graduate programs in Pharmacy. Brazilian graduate programs in Pharmacy offering RCR curricula were identified through a national database of graduate programs. Course duration, mandatory status, and syllabi were extracted for analysis. Syllabi were analyzed deductively, based on the National Institutes of Health´s (NIH) recommended RCR core content. Content not aligned with NIH recommendations was categorized inductively. Out of the 69 graduate programs, 71% (49/69) offered at least one course that included RCR content in their syllabi. Overall, 62.3% (43/69) included RCR content as part of a broader course (integrated courses), whereas 26.1% (18/69) offered courses solely focused on RCR (dedicated courses). Dedicated and integrated courses were required by 4.3% (3/69) and 13.0% (9/69) of programs, respectively. Most programs´ courses had a duration of 30hours. Ethical standards for research regarding animals was the most common content offered, followed by research regarding human beings. Most courses that addressed misconduct, focused on plagiarism. Most Brazilian graduate programs in Pharmacy include some RCR-related content, primarily within integrated and elective courses. We recognize that implementation of dedicated mandatory courses is needed. Brazilian funding agencies have the potential to foster the expansion of RI by requiring such courses across all graduate programs. In turn, it would encourage institutions to expand educational initiatives, and help to consolidate a strong culture of research integrity.