Framework to Enhance Research Integrity in Research Collaborations

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What is this about?

The Framework to Enhance Research Integrity in Research Collaborations provides guidance on promoting responsible research conduct within collaborative research partnerships. It is part of a suite of national research integrity tools developed under the National Research Integrity Forum in Ireland to help researchers and institutions work together with integrity in joint projects. The framework emphasises establishing clear governance and oversight mechanisms, recognising and addressing differences in customary practices across disciplines and cultures, and agreeing on shared standards at the start of a collaboration. It outlines responsibilities for accountability, independence, and responsiveness, encouraging transparent communication, risk management, and dispute resolution throughout the research lifecycle. It also highlights the need to manage potential conflicts of interest and align practices with funders’ requirements and relevant policies. The overall goal is to strengthen trust, reduce misunderstandings, and support rigorous, ethical, and high-quality collaborative research.

Why is this important?

This framework matters to researchers in collaborative projects, as it helps clarify shared expectations and responsibilities from the outset. Research institutions and universities benefit by using it to build robust governance and avoid conflicts or misconduct across partners. It is useful for project leaders and administrators responsible for project agreements, ethical oversight, and reporting mechanisms. Funding agencies and research integrity officers can reference it to ensure compliance with best practices and responsible conduct requirements. Finally, it supports journal editors and research evaluators by reinforcing integrity standards that underpin credible, transparent collaborative research outputs.

For whom is this important?

researchers in collaborative projectsResearch Institutions and Universitiesproject leaders and administratorsFunding agencies and research integrity officersjournal editors and research evaluators

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