Policy and Code of Conduct on the Governance of Good Research Conduct

This document sets out clear guidance on best practice for researchers. The RCUK Policy and Code of Conduct on the Governance of Good Research Conduct also provides guidelines which describe how to manage research to ensure the highest standards, and on the reporting and investigation of unacceptable research conduct.

The Code, developed after a wide consultation in 2008 with partners across the higher education and research sector, aims to provide clear guidelines to help researchers and research organisations achieve the highest standards possible when carrying out research. Covering a wide range of suggested best practice areas, from the need for appropriate training and development at the early career stage to how to handle the resignation of a researcher under investigation, the Code is designed to fit in with research organisations' own internal procedures.

Professor Ian Diamond, (then) Chair of RCUK, welcomed the publication of the Code, and said: "I believe that the close interaction with universities and research organisations in developing this document has been very important. Putting the policy and Code of Conduct in place is an important step forward in the approach to these matters in the UK."

The policy document is available here .