Upholding Public Trust in Research: A Collective Responsibility
Upholding Public Trust in Research: A Collective Responsibility
A statement from UKRIO
01 October 2025
“Public trust is the foundation of research impact. Without trust, even the best research cannot inform policy, protect public health, or address the challenges facing society.
When findings are exaggerated, oversimplified, or misrepresented, public trust is undermined. The risks are significant: flawed policies, threats to public health and safety, and the spread of misinformation that leads to false beliefs and weakens confidence in research. Recent events are a continuing reminder that research integrity is not only about how studies are conducted, but also how results are reported and shared.
Researchers themselves have a vital duty to report results accurately, transparently, and clearly – acknowledging limitations, applications, and implications; disclosing any potential or actual conflicts of interest; and ensuring communication activities are free from external pressures or undue influence.
Research institutions too have a crucial role in sustaining trust. The public must see that researchers work within environments defined by integrity – where ethical concerns can be raised without fear, responsible practices are actively supported, and systems exist to safeguard research integrity.
But the responsibility to uphold trust in research is a collective duty that extends beyond researchers and research institutions. It is the responsibility of all of us – including politicians, policy makers, people working in the media, and the general public – to report, critically appraise, and share information accurately.
The integrity of research depends on honesty, transparency, rigour, accountability, care, and respect. Upholding these values is essential to keeping research trustworthy and strengthening the confidence society places in it.”
– Stephanie Neave, Chief Executive Officer, UKRIO
Media enquiries:
Jasper Scott
Communications and Engagement Manager,
UK Research Integrity Office
jasper.scott@ukrio.org