ABSTRACT
All scientific research, including nanoscale science, is governed by recognized and well-established research ethics. It is built on a foundation of trust, to assure that results are valid, safety is a factor, and the observable world is being described without bias. For example, great care is given to the use of human subjects, to inform those subjects, and to minimize any known harms that could come to them as a result of the research. Likewise, authenticity of authorship, honest documentation, respect for intellectual property, accurate reporting of findings, proper detailing of protocol, and allocation of credit are standards of ethics in the professions of scientific and engineering research and development. This is no different in nanoscale science. Engineers who work as researchers, taking the results of science into the development of new devices, machines, and techniques for human use, are also guided by detailed, well-developed, and evolving professional codes. These codes govern issues such as integrity and safety of design, the intention of anticipating and then minimizing potential harm to humans and their environment. As a group, engineers are entrusted by the public to design, build, and assemble prod-
ucts and materials, which will serve and benefit the best interests of the common good, while rigorously testing against known harms, and communicating all known risks. This holds true in nanoscale engineering.
