UKRIO responds to review of The Concordat to Support Research Integrity

UKRIO welcomes the report by Universities UK into the implementation and impact of The Concordat to Support Research Integrity. It highlights the vital work being carried out by the UK research community to safeguard research integrity, essential to maintain high standards in research and enhance the UK’s international reputation.

The progress report recognises UKRIO as a key part of the architecture for research integrity. The essential work of our charity was noted by many of the organisations who contributed to the study:

‘…the most oft-cited resources that institutional leads on research integrity drew on were those provided by the UK Research Integrity Office, with both the ‘hard’ guidance available through UKRIO (such as model policies and processes) and the ‘soft’ support (such as informal advice and the annual conference) being highly valued.’

It is clear that the Concordat approach is effective and proportionate. But there is no room for complacency. Greater clarity from stakeholders of expectations relating to compliance is essential, though they should not mandate how the Concordat should be implemented. Research organisations need to be supported to be more open. All should consider how they can continue to support good professional practice and encourage research of the highest quality and ethical standards.

James Parry, Chief Executive of UKRIO, said: ‘We are pleased that the report recognises the “excellent support and leadership from the UK Research Integrity Office” on research integrity. We look forward to working with the Concordat stakeholders and others to implement the recommendations of the report. UKRIO will continue to support the UK research community and use its unique expertise to inform further work on the Concordat.’