Researcher Discretion: Navigating ambiguity and uncertainty in research practice

Problem: Researchers possess considerable discretion in how their research is designed, executed, and reported. Yet, the considerations of the researchers exercising their discretion are largely understudied. Our research provides in-depth empirical insight into the components of researcher decision-making. Methods: We conducted twelve months of ethnographic fieldwork in two end-of-life care research groups between 2020 and 2022. Findings: We found that researchers are constantly required to make decisions under incomplete information and must navigate a complex constellation of values in their research practice. Uncertainty may be reduced by research-within-research, though new information could not alleviate situations of moral ambiguity, where a moral judgment was required. These factors make for highly contextual decisions, for which knowledge of generic methods or guidelines are not sufficient to determine the best action. Conclusion: As such, efforts to improve the responsible conduct of researchers should also include building the capacity for ‘practical judgment’.