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Code of Good Practice in Research

To realise its research strategy to pursue academic excellence, the University of London is committed to maintaining the highest standards of rigour and integrity in all aspects of academic research.

The University regards it as fundamental that research must be conducted, and the results of research disseminated, honestly, accurately and in accordance with professional standards. 

The University of London is committed to supporting a research environment that is underpinned by a culture of integrity and transparency, which promotes good practice for research and includes fair processes to deal with allegations of research misconduct should they arise.

This Code of Good Practice in Research [PDF] represents the overarching research governance framework within which the University operates its research activities and is supplemented by additional and specific policies and procedures. This Code endorses the Athena Swan Charter principles. The University was awarded the Bronze Award in 2022.

Framework for Research Governance and Sources of Guidance

  1. Policies and Procedures for investigating allegations of misconduct in academic research (Students, Staff, Fellows) [being revised]
    Policy and procedures for responding to allegations of misconduct in research [PDF]
    Academic misconduct policy [PDF]
  2. Research Ethics Policy and Procedures
    Data Protection and Academic Research Policy and Guidance
    Using online platforms, inc. social media, when undertaking research under the UOL auspices - Usage Protocols and Guidance [PDF] 
  3. Open Access Policy & Guidance
  4. Research Data Management Policy & Guidance [PDF]
  5. Social Media Policy & Guidance [being revised] 
  6. Safeguarding Policy and Procedures

Relevant University Policies and Procedures

  1. Procedures on Research Grant Applications and Contracts
  2. Ordinance 17 (Code of Student discipline) 
  3. Ordinance 20 
  4. HR policies
  5. Ordinance 23 (Public Disclosure Policy)
  6. Financial Regulations
  7. Data Protection Policy
  8. Freedom of Information 
  9. ICT Security and Use Policy 
  10. Intellectual Property

Scope and Responsibility

This Code of Good Practice in Research applies to all staff, taught (with research components) and research students of the University and to those who are not members of the University but are conducting research under its auspices, such as Fellows and academic consultants (all categories hereafter referred to as ‘researchers’). 

This Code of Good Practice in Research applies to all subject areas and is irrespective of how the research activities are funded.

It is the researcher’s responsibility to follow the University’s Code of Good Practice in Research and its ethical standards, and any relevant academic or professional guidelines in the conduct of their study. Accountability and responsibility towards the management of research projects is confirmed when signing the ethics self-assessment form (see Research Ethics page).

It is the University's responsibility to support all researchers in the performance of their duties and and is committed to provide appropriate support infrastructure including training to that effect. The University's annual statement on research integrity can be found here.

For more information, please contact the research services at research@london.ac.uk