Exploring Ethical Awareness and Lived Experiences of Scientists in Marine-Based Drug Discovery: A Phenomenological Study within Coastal Biomedical Research Contexts
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Abstract
Marine-based drug discovery has emerged as a vital frontier in pharmaceutical science, offering vast opportunities for identifying bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential. This study explores how scientists engaged in marine-based drug discovery experience and interpret their scientific and ethical involvement within this field. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with twelve researchers actively engaged in marine drug development to uncover the experiential, ethical, and emotional dimensions of their work. Findings reveal three key themes: (1) curiosity-driven exploration that fuels innovation and resilience; (2) ethical negotiation balancing scientific ambition with ecological responsibility; and (3) collaborative reflection fostering shared moral and intellectual purpose. These themes demonstrate that discovery is not merely technical but deeply moral and emotional, shaped by both personal reflection and collective responsibility. The study concludes that integrating phenomenological perspectives enhances understanding of scientific creativity, ethics, and sustainability in marine-based innovation. It highlights the need for future research and policy frameworks that recognize the lived ethical awareness of scientists as central to responsible drug discovery.
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