University of Tasmania, Australia

Section 1: General Principles of Responsible Research

Cross References:

• Section 1 of the Australian Code

• Responsible Conduct of Research Policy

• Research Ethics Policy

• Management of Research Funding Policy

Section 1 of the Code discusses the responsibilities of institutions and researchers to maintain an environment that fosters responsible research.

Responsibilities of the University of Tasmania

The University will:

1. Promote awareness of its policies and procedures, and guidelines and legislation relating to the conduct of research
2. Actively encourage mutual co-operation with open exchange of ideas between peers, and respect for freedom of expression and inquiry
3. Maintain an environment in which responsible and ethical behaviour in research is expected
4. Provide an appropriate research governance framework which: Assesses research for quality, safety, privacy, risk management, financial management and ethical acceptability
5. Demand compliance with laws, regulations, guidelines and codes of practice governing the conduct of research in Australia
6. Specify the roles, responsibilities and accountabilities of all those who play a part in research
7. Ensure induction, training, and continuing education on responsible research practices is provided to all staff and students involved in the conduct of research associated with the University
8. Have a process for receiving and managing allegations of research misconduct
9. Promote effective mentoring and supervision
10. Ensure, as far as practicable, a safe environment to conduct research

Responsibilities of researchers affiliated with the University of Tasmania

Researchers are expected to foster and maintain a research environment of intellectual honesty and integrity, and scholarly and scientific rigour. Researchers are therefore required to:

1. Read and be familiar with the Australian Code, and other guidelines promoting the responsible conduct of research including, but not limited to, the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research and the Australian code of practice for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes
2. Conduct research honestly and avoid departures from the responsible conduct of research
3. Comply with legal or regulatory requirements, University policies, procedures and guidelines, and the principles outlined in the Code.
4. Cite awards, degrees conferred and research publications accurately
5. Manage conflicts of interest
6. Report research responsibly
7. Follow proper practices for safety and security
8. Respect research participants and animals used in research
9. Report suspected research misconduct, in accordance with University policies and procedures, and the Code