This Brief introduces engineers to the main principles in ethics research design statistics
and publishing of human subject research. In recent years engineering has become strongly
connected to disciplines such as biology medicine and psychology. Often engineers (and
engineering students) are expected to perform human subject research. Typical human subject
research topics conducted by engineers include human-computer interaction (e.g. evaluating the
usability of software) exoskeletons virtual reality teleoperation modelling of human
behaviour and decision making (often within the framework of 'big data' research) product
evaluation biometrics behavioural tracking (e.g. of work and travel patterns or mobile
phone use) transport and planning (e.g. an analysis of flows or safety issues) etc. Thus it
can be said that knowledge on how to do human subject research is indispensable for a
substantial portion of engineers. Engineers are generally well trainedin calculus and mechanics
but may lack the appropriate knowledge on how to do research with human participants. In order
to do high-quality human subject research in an ethical manner several guidelines have to be
followed and pitfalls have to be avoided. This book discusses these guidelines and pitfalls.
The aim is to prepare engineers and engineering students to carry out independent research in a
responsible manner.
