UKRIO Code of Practice for Research (2023), UK Research Integrity Office

What is this about?

The UKRIO Code of Practice for Research (2023), authored by the UK Research Integrity Office, is a national framework that sets out principles and standards for research integrity in the UK while aligning with international norms. It is built on core values of honesty, accountability, professional courtesy, and stewardship, linking these to reproducibility, credibility, and public trust in research. The Code defines responsibilities for researchers, supervisors, institutions, funders, and journals, covering all stages of the research cycle from planning and conducting to publishing and reviewing. It outlines provisions for clear authorship, proper acknowledgement, conflict-of-interest management, transparency of methods and data, fair peer review, and responsible supervision. It also establishes mechanisms to address misconduct through due process, proportional sanctions, and opportunities for learning. Education and training are emphasized to ensure integrity is embedded as a skill, alongside guidance on emerging issues such as open science, digital tools, and data management. Equity, diversity, and inclusivity are presented as cross-cutting themes essential for responsible research environments. By offering practical tools such as checklists and reporting templates, the Code functions both as a policy benchmark and as a day-to-day handbook, supporting researchers and institutions in safeguarding research quality across the UK.

For whom is this important?

ResearchersResearch institutionsFunding institutionsPolicy makers

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