Why can a researcher's membership on an advisory board create a conflict of interest?

A researcher's membership on an advisory board can create a conflict of interest primarily because they may struggle to maintain neutrality due to vested interests. When a researcher is involved in an advisory capacity, they often have personal or professional stakes in the outcomes or decisions being made by that board. This involvement can lead to biased judgments or influence over research outcomes, recommendations, or policies that may not be in the best interest of the research integrity or the population being studied.

For example, if a researcher has a financial interest in a product or protocol associated with the advisory board's discussions, they might unconsciously promote that interest over evidence-based conclusions. The presence of such vested interests could compromise the objectivity expected from a researcher, creating ethical dilemmas regarding their dual responsibilities as a researcher and advisor. This potential bias is what classifies it as a conflict of interest, requiring careful management and transparency to uphold ethical research standards.