Appendix A. Pre-Fieldwork Checklist

Ethics approval from my home institution (if required) obtained.

Ethics approval from local committee obtained (or confirmed not required in writing).

National or regional research permit obtained, and visa category confirmed.

Local institutional affiliation and written agreement in place.

Permission from local authorities and community leaders arranged.

Permits for samples, protected areas, species, antiquities or cultural materials obtained.

Material Transfer Agreements, data sharing agreements or benefit-sharing agreements signed where required.

Data protection requirements checked; data management plan written; secure storage ready.

Instruments translated, back-translated and pilot tested.

Interpreters and assistants recruited, trained and fairly paid.

Consent process designed and approved, including for illiterate and vulnerable participants.

Risk assessment completed; emergency plan shared with supervisor and partner.

Insurance, vaccinations and medical supplies arranged.

Communication, finance and backup arrangements ready.

Plan for returning results and archiving data prepared.