Accessibility statement

Research integrity and ethics

‘Research integrity’ refers to high quality and robust practice across the full research process ie the planning and conduct of research, the recording and reporting of results, and the dissemination, application and exploitation of findings. Research ethics are a subset of research integrity, focusing on the principle of avoidance of harm, within a statutory and regulatory framework.

The University expects the highest standards in the conduct of all research undertaken in its name and on its premises using its facilities. This includes research undertaken by staff, students, visiting or emeritus staff, associates, honorary or clinical contract holders, contractors and consultants. In this, the University recognises its obligations to the wider research community, to the funders of research and to society as a whole to uphold the integrity of academic research, and to comply with the UK Concordat to support research integrity (2019).

Key policies

  • Code of Practice on Research Integrity
    Lays out the foundations for the proper conduct of research, the standards expected by the University, and responsibilities for upholding these standards.
  • Research Misconduct Policy and Procedure
    Sets out a definition of research misconduct, routes for reporting concerns and the policy and procedure for dealing with allegations. The University's named point of contact to act as confidential liaison for whistle blowers or any other person wishing to raise concerns about the integrity of research being conducted under the University's auspices is the Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research, Professor Matthias Ruth.

Oversight of research integrity

Research integrity at York is overseen by the Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research, Professor Matthias Ruth, who is formally the first point of contact for anyone wanting more information on matters of research integrity at the University. Internal queries should be addressed in the first instance to the Research Integrity Officer, Zoe Deacy-Clarke: zoe.deacy-clarke@york.ac.uk, ext 4308. 

Information on how the University meets the requirements of the Concordat to Support Research Integrity is summarised in our Proof of Compliance Document (PDF , 305kb) (approved by University Research Committee, October 2020).

In line with the Concordat to support research integrity, the University presents a short annual statement on research integrity and misconduct to its governing body. Statements from previous years are found below.

Opportunities for support and training