Seminar series: Ethics in Action

Date: Starting from 21 April 2026, several dates in April, June and July
Location: Online
Organisation: WiNoDa Knowledge Lab
Language: English

Modern research has developed advanced frameworks and procesudres to ensure high ethical standards that protect humans, nature, and cultural heritage. However, when it comes to scientific collections, researchers often assume that these materials are largely “unproblematic” and that ethical issues are minimal. Yet, as one examines collection practices and historical contexts, many complex ethical issues become apparent. These include colonial histories of acquisition, power imbalance, overlooked indigenous rights, the reproduction of discriminatory stereotypes, potential risks to endangered species, and the complex interplay between nature, human history and contemporary politics.

In this seminar series, WiNoDa Knowledge Lab explores the ethics of data derived from scientific collections, covering topics ranging from dinosaur fossils to looted artefacts, as well as threathened species and genetic resources. Speakers will highight the importance of understanding the historical and ethical context of collection data, discuss the challenges of working with such materials responsibly, and present practical approaches and tools for addressing these complexities. The series aims to foster dialogue and collaboration towards more just, transparent, and responsible practices in the management and use of collection data. Several sessions focus specifically on the role of indigenous communities, restitution and objects in scientific collections collected from colonial contexts.

All sessions will be held online and in English. Participation is free, but registration is required. Click the button below to learn more about the themes, dates and times of the different seminars.