UKRIO offers support that is appropriate, practical and proportionate, not burdensome or bureaucratic. The guidance we offer is not mandatory. It reflects best practice. We promote good research practice and robust and fair methods to address poor practice and misconduct, as well as providing expert guidance in response to specific requests for assistance. Our support extends across all academic disciplines. We promote common approaches to common situations, and provide subject-specific expertise whenever necessary.
This approach has been welcomed. Use of our services has continued to grow year on year. UKRIO received more than 60 formal requests for assistance in 2010 alone. Many research organisations, including over 50 universities, use our published guidance, which is endorsed by funding and professional bodies. It has become clear since UKRIO was set up that employers and individuals value our confidential, independent and expert service and are willing to come forward and seek guidance from UKRIO. We would not be approached if we were not needed.
We do not seek to trespass on the responsibilities of regulatory organisations but instead work with them as appropriate. UKRIO fills gaps between jurisdictions, where no overall regulation might apply, and helps to direct researchers, organisations and the public to the right regulators where their jurisdiction does apply. UKRIO helps institutions achieve high standards when they have to manage challenges to research integrity, and it advises individuals faced with bad practice. Our advice and guidance emphasises the good practice that runs across all research disciplines and all regulatory remits. In this way our role complements that of regulators such as the new Health Research Authority and supports the work of Government and research funders.
For further information about our approach to promoting good research practice and addressing misconduct, please contact us.