Research misconduct

University of Edinburgh Research Misconduct Policy

The University conducts research of the highest standard. It is committed to ensuring that all research is carried out with the utmost rigour and integrity. Research misconduct is an uncommon but potentially important threat to rigour and integrity. This policy aims to ensure that any allegation of research misconduct is handled fairly and in line with the UK Research Integrity Office’s Procedure for the Investigation of Misconduct in Research.

View the UoE Policy Directory (Search for "Research Misconduct Policy")

Breaches to research integrity can be damaging to individuals and to institutions, undermine public trust, and in worst cases can cause harm. Understanding what constitutes misconduct, and seeking training where necessary, is key to avoiding breaches of research integrity.

Academic Misconduct (Students)

Allegations relating to the research undertaken by University students will be investigated using the Academic Misconduct Investigation Procedure.

Academic Misconduct University of Edinburgh Information (webpage)

Academic Misconduct Investigation Procedure

How to report research misconduct

Professor Christina Boswell, Vice-Principal Research and Enterprise, is the main responsible contact for Research Misconduct.  Professor Boswell delegates responsibility for research misconduct in each College.

The University encourages self reporting, which is important in minimising harm to both participants, researchers or the public, minimising risk exposure for the university and improving future practice of the researcher(s).

College guidance on reporting misconduct may vary, and each college has its own procedures and key contacts for reporting of misconduct.  Please view the following links for your relevant college research ethics and integrity webpages.

Russell Group Statement of Cooperation in respect of cross-institutional research misconduct allegations

In circumstances where allegations of research misconduct involve more than one institution, the Russell Group Statement of Cooperation in respect of cross-institutional research misconduct allegations sets out principles for the management of misconduct investigations. 

Russell Group Statement (external website)

Whistleblowing

You can report misconduct malpractice and raise concerns centrally under the public interest disclosure legislation (Whistleblowing)