Our statement on research integrity sets out our commitment to the highest standards of research integrity.
University of Staffordshire Statement on Research Integrity
University of Staffordshire expects high standards in the conduct of research undertaken by staff, students, visiting honorary and emeritus titleholders, associates and consultants. The University will act in accordance with the principles set out in the Concordat to Support Research Integrity (Universities UK, 2019). The concordat defines what is expected of researchers and their employers to ensure the highest standards of research, namely:
- Maintaining the highest standards of rigour and integrity in all aspects of research.
- Ensuring that research is conducted according to appropriate ethical, professional frameworks, obligations and standards.
- Supporting a research environment that is underpinned by a culture of integrity and based on good governance, best practice and support for the development of researchers.
- Using transparent, robust and fair processes to deal with allegations of research misconduct.
- Working together to strengthen the integrity of research and to reviewing progress regularly and openly.
Research Integrity at University of Staffordshire is overseen by Vice Chancellor Professor Martin Jones.
For further information, or any questions, regarding research integrity at University of Staffordshire, queries in the first instance should be directed to the Research Policy and Governance Manager, Dr Jane McKay (jane.mckay@staffs.ac.uk).
Should any person wish to raise concerns about the integrity of research being conducted under the auspices of University of Staffordshire, they can contact, in confidence, the Head of Research Environment and Development, Mrs Emma Davies (E.J.Davies@staffs.ac.uk).
Annual reports on research integrity
In line with the requirements of the Concordat to support research integrity, the university’s Board of Governors reviews and approves an annual statement summarising how research integrity is promoted and supported, including details of related activities undertaken across the university. This statement also includes anonymised information about how allegations of misconduct in research have been assessed and investigated.
Responsible use of Research Metrics
University of Staffordshire recognises that while research metrics have many benefits for individual researchers and institutions, they also have limitations and we recognise that misinformed or ill-applied use of metrics can be detrimental to an individual and the institution itself. As such, University of Staffordshire adopts and advocates a responsible use of research metrics as outlined in our Statement on the Responsible use of Research Metrics (PDF file).
Use of metrics in research at University of Staffordshire is the responsibility of the Vice Chancellor Professor Martin Jones.
Key policies
Research Misconduct Policy
University of Staffordshire’s Policy on Research Misconduct, and its process for investigating allegation of Research Misconduct:
The definition of research misconduct can be found in section 7 of the Code of Conduct for Research and Research Integrity (2022).
Anyone who believes that an act of research misconduct has taken place or is taking place, should notify, in writing, the Pro Vice Chancellor Professor Raheel Nawaz (or the confidential whistle-blower contact), and explain the nature of the allegation and the person or persons against whom the allegation of research misconduct has been made. The identity of a Complainant will not be disclosed during the investigation.
Open data and Open Access Mandate
University of Staffordshire is committed to the principles of open access to research outputs.
Export Control
Universities have a responsibility as leaders of cutting-edge research to play a role in national security. University of Staffordshire is committed to complying with UK Export Control law, and provides governance through its export control policy together with staff training to ensure a robust and consistent approach to international collaboration.’
All enquiries pertaining to export control matters should be directed to our dedicated email address: exportcontrols@staffs.ac.uk.