Research Governance Framework - researching with integrity, excellence and impact
Research Governance is fundamental to delivering high-quality, impactful research that aligns with the University's Research Model and mission. At its core, it establishes a robust framework of policies, procedures, and oversight to ensure research is conducted ethically, responsibly, and with the highest standards of integrity.
The Research Governance Framework reflects the University's commitment to the values of honesty, transparency, and accountability in all research activities. This commitment safeguards the rights, dignity, and safety of research participants, protects the University's reputation, and ensures research outcomes are trustworthy and reproducible.
Research Governance and Research Integrity are deeply interconnected. Governance provides the structures and processes that support the responsible conduct of research, while integrity is the guiding principle that shapes the culture and behaviours of our research community. Together, they foster an environment where ethical decision-making, rigorous methodology, and respect for all stakeholders are the norm.
At the University of Tasmania, Research Governance is upheld through a range of institutional mechanisms, including:
- The Institutional approach to Risk Management and Research Risk Portfolio (formerly Whole-of-University Risks),
- The Governance Instruments Framework (policies and procedures),
- Legal Compliance systems,
- Our Strategy,
- A commitment to best practice standards,
- Centralised and local expertise and support, and
- Oversight, advisory, and approval committees.
The Research Governance Framework ensures a consistent approach to the responsible conduct of research by:
- Clearly defining internal and external compliance requirements,
- Developing informed institutional procedures,
- Establishing clear workflows for research activities,
- Supporting the development of guidance materials, resources, and training packages, and
- Driving a culture of compliance through trust, assurance activities, and continuous improvement reporting.
These activities not only uphold research standards but also provide confidence that our governance strategies are effective. Monitoring and reporting mechanisms offer assurance and early detection of potential process failures, enabling timely interventions and ongoing enhancement of research quality and integrity.
Research Governance Framework
Specialist advice and contact
Specialist advice is available through the Research Division - Research Governance (Staff intranet) for the following areas:
- Biosafety and biosecurity
- Gene technologies
- Scheduled substances
- Clinical trials
- Defence export controls
For general enquiries or specialist advice, please contact: research.governance@utas.edu.au
For clinical trial-related enquiries, please contact: clinical.trials@utas.edu.au