The Concordat to Support Research Integrity
The Concordat to Support Research Integrity
The Concordat to Support Research Integrity is the UK’s governing document on research integrity, including requirements on specific aspects of research integrity such as research culture, research ethics and governance of research projects. It is a ‘framework by which the UK research community, and those collaborating with them, can support the trustworthiness of UK research’.
Covering all sectors and disciplines of research, the Concordat sets out five commitments that those engaged in research must make to help ensure that the highest standards of rigour and integrity are maintained. These key commitments apply to researchers and research-supporting staff, research organisations and funding bodies alike, and are a condition of grants from many research funders, including UK Research & Innovation.
UKRIO has given significant input into all three editions of the Concordat and have long championed many of its commitments. The Concordat is an important step in the journey towards improving research integrity and enhancing the UK’s world-class reputation for conducting exceptional and innovative research. We are pleased to be part of the powerful consensus that it documents and will continue to work with the signatories of the Concordat to help implement its requirements and provide feedback to inform its future development.
You can read an introductory guide to the Concordat here.
Refreshed 2025 Concordat
On 4 April 2025, a refreshed version of the Concordat to Support Research Integrity was published to reflect developments in the research environment and ensure continued relevance. The previous revision took place in 2019, following recommendations from a parliamentary Select Committee on research integrity. Organisations are expected to align with the refreshed 2025 Concordat by April 2026. Until then, they should continue to comply with the 2019 edition.
Briefing note on the refreshed 2025 Concordat
To support the sector in understanding the changes, UKRIO has published a new briefing note, written by Chief Innovation Officer James Parry. This practical resource outlines how the revised Concordat affects institutional and individual responsibilities – particularly important as the Concordat increasingly informs the terms and conditions of research funding.
Help with implementing the Concordat
UKRIO is helping to maintain the current momentum by supporting and enhancing the implementation of the Concordat. We have unmatched experience in helping organisations put into operation the principles and standards of new research guidance, drawing on our expertise as an Observer on its Signatories Group, and will support the UK research community in meeting the requirements of the revised Concordat.
We will continue working with our subscribers and others to review and enhance their systems, practices and environments. UKRIO does not offer a prescriptive approach but helps researchers and institutions determine what would best meet their particular needs.
If you would like our support in embedding the revised Concordat in the systems and practices of your research or your organisation, please contact us.
UKRIO’s Self-Assessment Tool for the Concordat
The Concordat to Support Research Integrity allows flexibility in how its commitments are implemented – it is not a prescriptive, one-size-fits-all framework. However, translating its high-level principles into practice can be challenging. Many institutions and researchers have sought guidance from UKRIO on how to do this effectively.
To support implementation, UKRIO has developed a Self-Assessment Tool to help institutions review and strengthen their research policies, practices, and culture in line with the Concordat. Beyond supporting compliance, the tool encourages a broader, more strategic approach – enabling organisations to build on existing work to promote research quality and a positive research environment.
Following the publication of the 2025 Concordat, UKRIO is updating this tool. The third edition will be published in Summer 2025.