Research Integrity Champions, Leads, and Advisers
Research Integrity Champions, Leads, and Advisers
Version 2.0
This guidance outlines how organisations can develop networks of Research Integrity Champions, Leads, and Advisers to promote a positive research culture and support good research practice. It provides examples of such systems in action across international contexts, alongside key considerations for establishing them. Further down on this page, the guidance is complemented by a collection of UK-based case studies that demonstrate these systems in practice, as well as additional resources for training Research Integrity Champions.
Version 2.0 of these materials was published in November 2025 to reflect the latest standards and best practices, including updates to all content, most notably the case studies.
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The role of Research Integrity Champions, Leads, and Advisors
Safeguarding and improving research integrity – or ‘good research practice’ – is a complex, multifaceted, and essential endeavour. Studies such as the landscape review conducted by Vitae, UKRIO, and UKRN show that research quality, ethical standards, researcher effectiveness and wellbeing can all be negatively impacted by culture and systems of their research environment and the related incentives and pressures they face.
There is no single solution to these challenges, however, establishing a system of local research integrity champions can play a significant role. Creating informal, trusted channels for open discussion about good research practice and the challenges researchers encounter helps build ongoing dialogue around integrity and culture. It can promote shared ownership of problems, support practical solutions, and contribute to a more supportive environment.
Case studies
To support this guidance, we have included case studies illustrating how UK institutions have implemented models of local research integrity champions. Each case study outlines the model adopted, how it was established, the duties of the champions, and how the approach has worked in practice. They also highlight the challenges encountered and the lessons learned. By sharing this good practice, we aim to provide insight into how similar models could be developed and used across other UK research organisations.
These case studies are © UKRIO and the relevant institution, 2025.
Training support
A key consideration when establishing a system of research integrity champions, leads, and advisers is identifying what initial training or induction – and what ongoing development – they will require. To support this, we have included a guidance note outlining the types of training that may be needed.