Responsible Conduct of Research Policy

Overview

This Policy formally adopts the principles embodied in the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research [the Code] and needs to be read in conjunction with the Code: http://www.adelaide.edu.au/research/integrity/code/ . This Policy is predicated on the principle that researchers associated with the University are committed to high standards of professional conduct, and that they will ensure their work enhances the good name of the University and the profession to which they belong. Like the Code it adopts, the Policy simply formalises principles that naturally flow from such a commitment to excellence.

Scope and Application

This Policy applies to all staff, students and affiliates of the University of Adelaide who are involved in the conduct of research associated with the University. In this regard, we accept the Code definition of research as 'original investigation undertaken to gain knowledge, understanding and insight'. Compliance with the principles outlined in the Code is a requirement for the receipt of funding from the Australian Research Council and the National Health and Medical Research Council, thus application of the Code is crucial to the ongoing research viability of the University[1]. This Policy must be read in conjunction with the Code.

Policy Principles

1. The University endorses and adopts the general principles of responsible research outlined in the Code. The University broadly endorses and adopts the practices outlined in the Code as a guide to good practice.

2. All researchers associated with the University, whether staff, students or affiliates, are expected to:

a. read and be familiar with the content of the Code;

b. conduct their research in a manner consistent with the general principles outlined in the Code; and

c. conduct their research in compliance with other legal or regulatory requirements, this Policy and any University procedures or guidelines relevant to their field of research.

3. University managers and researchers must ensure, to the best of their ability, that University procedures, guidelines and processes are consistent with practices recommended in the Code, and that the Code informs the development and implementation of University procedures and guidelines related to the conduct of research.

4. All allegations of research misconduct will be dealt with in a fair, transparent and serious manner, and in accordance with the University's Enterprise Agreement, the 'Procedure for Managing Complaints of Research Misconduct/Serious Misconduct and Breaches of the Code', and the 'Rules for Student Conduct in the University'.