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Press Release
PRIM&R Delivers Keynote Address at University of New Mexico on ‘Ethics, Trust, and Community in Research’
October 9, 2025
ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico – Public Responsibility in Medicine and Research (PRIM&R)’s executive director delivered the keynote remarks today at Research University 2025 (RU25), a collaborative event hosted with the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center.
PRIM&R Executive Director Ivy R.Tillman, EdD, CIP’s remarks, “Chartering the Path Forward: Ethics, Trust, and Community in Research,” explored the current landscape of public trust in research, the roots of mistrust, and strategies for cultivating trustworthiness within research communities.
"Research ethics has a vital role to play in strengthening relationships with communities,” Tillman said. “Today, we have the opportunity to connect communities to the critical work of research ethics and oversight. Through embracing ethics and transparency, we can connect to build trust in science.”
RU 2025 includes sessions on research with vulnerable populations, biosafety, tribal-university research partnerships, and the essential role of animal research in scientific advancement. This year marks the 13th annual conference.
“As New Mexico’s premier R1-designated research university, the University of New Mexico is proud to lead the way in advancing innovative, ethical research that serves the state's rich and diverse communities,” said James MacFarlane, executive director for the UNMHSC Office of Research. “Through strong partnerships with organizations such as PRIM&R, AAHRPP, NABR, AAALAC, HRP Consulting, and our valued tribal collaborators, we are expanding the scope and impact of Research University. This year, we’re honored to welcome participants from over 90 institutions across seven states—an exciting testament to our shared commitment to excellence. By exchanging knowledge and best practices, we aim to elevate research opportunities, education, and awareness throughout the region."
RU 2025 is being held October 9 and October 10 at the Domenici Center on UNM’s North Campus in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This marks the first year PRIM&R has joined UNM Health Sciences Center in the conference which is dedicated to advancing ethical and responsible research practices.
Speakers from National Association for Biomedical Research (NABR), Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care International (AAALAC), Association for the Accreditation of Human Research Protection Programs, Inc (AAHRPP) and UNM will also be featured during the two-day program. The speakers will offer insights into regulatory frameworks, ethical challenges, and innovations in research oversight.
About PRIM&R
Since 1974, PRIM&R has advanced the highest ethical standards in the conduct of research. We accomplish this mission through education, membership services, professional certification, public policy initiatives, and community building. PRIM&R is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. Find out more at www.primr.org
Media Contact:
Daniel McLean
Public Engagement Manager
Public Responsibility in Medicine and Research (PRIM&R)
Direct: 617-303-1877
dmclean@primr.org
www.primr.org