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Ethics & integrity

Research integrity

The principles of research integrity

Red outline of a hand on heart Honesty
Red outline of a bar graph with a horizontal line showing inclining amounts. Flag stands on the right hand side of graph. Rigour
Red outline of a magnifying glass with a x showing in the glass. Transparency
Red outline of scales. Fairness
Red outline of two hands shaking each other. Respect
Red outline of Australia with an Aboriginal art pattern of the left lower side of the outline where Western Australia is located. Recognition
Red outline of a head of a person and upper body with a red tick in a circle over the right shoulder. Accountability
Red outline of a hand holding a loudspeaker with three lines indicating sound in being projected out of the speaker. Promotion

We are committed to a responsible research culture.

The aim of the Research Integrity Office is to promote and foster a culture of responsible research at the University reflective of the principles set out in the (“the Code”) and the UOW  and its .

We are committed to providing advice, support and training along with mechanisms for resolution of authorship dispute matters and information on lodging a formal complaint or concern with the UOW Complaints Management Centre.

We partner with our Research Integrity Advisors to assist researchers to conduct their research with the highest standards of integrity, ensuring research at UOW is safe, ethical and responsible and is in accordance with the relevant codes, guidelines, legislation and professional frameworks.

Further information

About research integrity

About breaches, concerns and complaints

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research

About foreign relations and international collaborations

Authorship and publishing

Research Data Management

Research supervision

Generative Artificial Intelligence

Conflict of interest in research

Frequently asked questions

Help – advice and support services

Forms, guidelines & policies

Training and development

Committee information

Research Integrity at UOW

Research integrity is the foundation of trustworthy, responsible research. At UOW, we are committed to promoting and fostering a culture of responsible research. 

°µÍø½ûÇø out more about integrity at UOW

Research Integrity at UOW

At UOW, we aim for a culture of responsible research and encourage researchers to be educated in responsible research practices and seek clarity if they are unsure.

The highest standards of integrity are expected for any research project regardless of the size, discipline, funding or who is completing the research.

As a research community we want:

  • Research to continue to be funded and resourced

  • To do no harm

  • To improve the community we live in

  • Our community to trust our outcomes

  • To demonstrate we care for and appreciate our participants

This leads to a healthy reputation – for you, for UOW and for the wider research community – which helps enable more research into the future.

The Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research and its supporting guidelines identifies broad principles that characterise a responsible research culture and defines responsibilities for research.

The first principle is honesty – present your information truthfully and accurately when proposing, conducting and reporting research.

Next, you should ensure attention to detail and apply robust methodologies, and if there are any unavoidable biases they should be acknowledged.

It’s important to declare your interests and ensure you share your findings openly, responsibly and accurately.

Make sure you appropriately reference and cite others and give credit and authorship to those who have contributed.

Ensure you treat human participants and communities with care and consideration, ensure respect in the care and use of animals and minimise environmental impacts.

Recognise, value and respect the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to be engaged in research that affects or is of significance to them.

You are accountable for how your research is conducted. This includes complying with legislation, policies and guidelines, ensuring good stewardship of resources and considering the consequences before you communicate outcomes.

Be a role model to others by encouraging and fostering a responsible research culture.

These principles are reflected in UOW’s Code of Practice for Responsible Conduct of Research along with supporting policies, procedures and guidelines.

We have online self-paced training by Epigeum available in Moodle. On successful completion of the modules and quizzes you will be provided with a certificate of completion.

A failure to meet the principles and responsibilities for research integrity may constitute a breach. A major or serious breach, or repeated breaches, could be considered misconduct.

We encourage researchers to stop and check, seek clarity and speak out if something does not seem right. Some examples of issues you may face are:

  • Authorship not attributed or authorship gifted

  • Supervision failures

  • Fabrication, falsification or misrepresentation of data

  • Poor data management practices

  • Misuse of funding

  • Misuse of intellectual property

  • Failure to have ethics approval

  • Failure to declare a conflict of interest or bias

  • Engaging in poor publishing practices

There are people available to answer queries, help you understand the policies and support you to research responsibly.

A good place to start is with our Research Integrity Advisor Network. UOW’s team of RIAs are experienced researchers who are available to provide advice on what is a good or questionable research practice, help you navigate policy and provide you with options to resolve issues.

They are available to staff and students and you are welcome to approach any RIA from any discipline.

If you believe something is happening that shouldn’t be, please speak up. Information on making a formal complaint is available on the UOW Research Integrity webpage. Please contact our Research Integrity Officer if you need advice on the processes available to you.

Researching with integrity creates a safe, respectful environment, enhances the impact of research across the world, and contributes to a positive reputation for the research community that you are part of.

Contact us

Research Integrity at UOW

About research integrity

The broad principles that characterise an honest, ethical and responsible research culture are outlined in the . These principles are reflected in .  These documents are designed to assist researchers and institutions in understanding and meeting their obligations for responsible research. 

Researchers new to research must familiarise themselves with the .

It is also highly recommended that researchers new to UOW review  and familiarise themselves with the .

Other resources and opportunities researchers should consider include:

  • The for both staff and student researchers
  • HDR Students can attend the HDR Induction and Training. Further information available from the Graduate Research School
  • Staff researchers can learn more at Academic Induction. Further information available in the 
  • UOW’s governance framework for Research Integrity is outlined in the 
  • The Managing Research Data webpages provide information and support for meeting integrity requirements for data management
  • Our micro-training opportunities in our

Refer to our Training and Development section for other opportunities.

Reach out to our Research Integrity Officer to learn more about Research Integrity and our approach at UOW. You can email or call the Research Integrity Office to arrange specific training to meet your individual needs or the needs of your School / group which can be as formal or informal as you require.

Alternatively, UOW has an established network of academic staff called Research Integrity Advisors who can assist you with discipline and research specific questions and concerns about integrity.

 

International approaches to research integrity have been shaped by a series of global initiatives and statements developed through the . These forums have developed shared principles and commitments which provide guidance worldwide. Key outputs include:

  • - sets out four fundamental principles and 14 responsibilities for researchers worldwide.
  • - focuses on responsibilities in cross-border collaborations.
  • - promotes transparency and accountability and encourages evidence-based integrity policies.
  • - provides five principles for assessing researchers beyond publication metrics.
  • - advocates fairness and equity as essential components of research integrity.

Explore some* of the widely adopted frameworks that guide integrity in research worldwide:

* Please note this is a representative list and not an exhaustive one.

The principles of research integrity

Red outline of a hand on heart

Honesty

When developing, undertaking and reporting on research, information must be presented truthfully and accurately in proposing, conducting and reporting research, ensuring that any claims or conclusions are justified.

 

Red outline of a bar graph with a horizontal line showing inclining amounts. Flag stands on the right hand side of graph.

Rigour

When developing, undertaking and reporting on research, it must be underpinned with attention to detail and the application of a robust methodology with strategies in place to avoid or acknowledge any bias.

 

Red outline of a magnifying glass with a x showing in the glass.

Transparency

When declaring interests and reporting research methodology, data and findings on research, any conflicts of interest and reputational risks must be disclosed and managed. Research methodology, findings and knowledge must be shared openly, responsibly and accurately. 

Red outline of scales.

Fairness

Fellow researchers and others involved in the research must be treated fairly and with respect. Appropriate references and citations with referring to the work of others and appropriate credit for authorship must be applied. 

Red outline of two hands shaking each other.

Respect 

All human research participants, communities and animals must be treated with care and respects with appropriate consideration given to the needs of minority groups and vulnerable people. Decisions and actions related to the care and use of animals must be made with respect and adverse effects on the environment as a result of research must be minimised. 

Red outline of Australia with an Aboriginal art pattern of the left lower side of the outline where Western Australia is located.

Recognition

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples continual connection to country and diverse forms of culture, cultural expression and knowledges must be respected and valued. Research projects must be collaborative, culturally meaningful and reciprocal with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples enabled to freely make decisions about the purpose, design, protocols, roles and responsibilities with outcomes report to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.  

Red outline of a head of a person and upper body with a red tick in a circle over the right shoulder.

Accountability

When developing, undertaking and reporting on research it must compliy with all relevant legislation, internal and external policies and guidelines. There must be good stewardship of public resources with reputational risks, consequences and outcomes of research considered prior to communication. 

Red outline of a hand holding a loudspeaker with three lines indicating sound in being projected out of the speaker.

Promotion

Responsible research practices and a culture that supports the responsible conduct of research will be fostered and promoted with research students and early career researchers mentored and supervised accordingly.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research

UOW’s echoes the principle of recognition as found in the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research. It outlines the requirement for all researchers to respect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples continual connection to Country, and value diverse forms of culture, cultural expression and knowledges.

The supports the and role of research data in advancing Indigenous innovation and self-determination.

Researchers are encouraged to engage in the available in Unified. 
The Research Integrity Development and Ethics team, in collaboration with Indigenous Strategy and Engagement has compiled guidance on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research.

Refer to the Help – Advice and Support Services section for information on people available to provide further assistance.

About breaches, concerns and complaints

UOW’s defines a breach as “behaviour that fails to meet the principles or responsibilities of the Code or fails to comply with relevant policies or legislation.”

Before a breach is assessed or investigated it is referred to as a potential breach. A preliminary assessment and/or investigation process determines whether a breach has occurred and whether it is minor breach, major breach or research misconduct.

Research misconduct is a serious breach which is also intentional or reckless or negligent. Repeated or persistent breaches will likely constitute a serious breach. Where there has been previous counselling or specific direction, repeated or continuing breaches do constitute research misconduct. Research misconduct may have serious consequences.

Most researchers research with integrity but what happens when this isn't the case? Read this article to understand how concerns related to the responsible conduct of research are handled at UOW". 

Further information is available in our .

I have a concern or complaint, what should I do?

  1. You can familiarise yourself with the that guide responsible research at UOW. You may also wish to familiarise yourself with the .
  2. You can seek advice from a Research Integrity Advisor and/or a  Research Integrity Officer.
  3. If you are an HDR student you can seek support, as described on the Graduate Research School HDR support contacts or from your School Head of Postgraduate Studies or Faculty Associate Dean – Higher Degree Research

How do I lodge a concern or complaint formally?

If you decide to lodge a concern or make a complaint in writing, you can send it through the University’s online Complaints Management System.

Can I make a complaint anonymously?

Yes, the University accepts anonymous complaints and aims to investigate where possible. However, if there is insufficient or unclear detail provided, it may limit the University’s ability to assess or investigate the matter.

You are encouraged to review further information in the for information on with holding your identity. 

What happens after I submit a concern or complaint in writing?

  1. You should expect to receive an acknowledgement that your concern or complaint has been received.
  2. Next your concern or complaint with be triaged by Complaints Management Centre
  3. . This means:
    • A staff member will be appointed to manage the initial review.
    • It will be determined if the concern or complaint relates to a potential breach of the Code, or a potential breach of a different University Code or policy and the best approach for managing the concern or complaint.
    • Any urgent actions that need to be taken will be identified i.e.: to protect humans, animals or the environment affected by the research activity.
  4. You will be advised of the outcome of the triage process and the next steps to be taken unless you have reported the concern or complaint anonymously.

Is there a time limit on raising research integrity concerns or complaints?

There is no time limit on raising a concern however early intervention can often prevent an issue from escalating or reoccurring. In some cases, delaying the reporting of an issue can impact on the ability of the team to assess or investigate an issue or implement remedial actions.

See Help – Advice and Support Services section for information on people available to help you.

As outlined in the , any process related concerns following the finalisation of any preliminary assessment or investigation can be referred to .

International Collaborations at UOW

This video provides an overview of the legislative elements researchers should consider when embarking on research projects involving international collaboration. It is designed as an introduction to sanctions, defence export controls, foreign arrangements, foreign influence and foreign interference and provides information on requirements for compliance with the associated laws and regulations and where to seek further information at UOW.

About foreign relations and international collaboration

International Collaborations at UOW

The Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research identifies broad principles that characterise a responsible research culture.

This includes outlining that those involved in research have a responsibility to disclose and manage actual, potential and perceived conflicts of interest, and to be accountable for compliance with the relevant laws, regulations, disciplinary standards, policies and guidelines to ensure proper approvals are obtained and adhered to.

There is legislation that can require permits or notification to government departments before an international collaboration can proceed.

It is important to understand the Acts, regulations and schemes that are designed to ensure research can proceed with transparency whilst also protecting national security and interests.

Five of the legislative elements are:

a. The Autonomous Sanctions Act
b. The Defence Trade Controls Act
c. The Foreign Arrangements Scheme
d. The Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme
e. The Guidelines to Counter Foreign Interference in the Australian University Sector

Sanctions laws restrict trade and commercial activity and could impact your ability to recruit HDR candidates, invite visiting students and academics to the university, travel internationally, or collaborate with researchers overseas.

Sanctions apply to both individuals on the consolidated list and specified countries or regimes as listed by the United Nations Security Council and Australian autonomous sanctions.

A permit provides authorisation to undertake an activity that would otherwise be prohibited.

Researchers are required to take reasonable precautions and exercise due diligence to prevent a sanctions breach.

The Defence Trade Controls Act controls the export and supply of goods, information, materials and technology with potential dual-use applications as outlined in the Defence and Strategic Goods List (DSGL). It applies to both physical export and digital supply, such as via email.

Before exporting or supplying research and data, you need to assess whether a permit from the Department of Defence may be required.

The Foreign Arrangements Scheme establishes a formal notification process for written agreements, contracts and understandings between the University and foreign governments and their entities.

The University must notify the government when it proposes to enter an arrangement and again when the agreement is executed.

Before entering any agreement with international parties, ensure Global Strategy has assessed the arrangement and whether it needs to be notified.

There are some relationships that the Australian Government requires you to declare.

Examples include relationships involving parliamentary lobbying, general political lobbying and communication activities, or payments whose purpose is political or government influence.

These relationships and activities need to be registered under the Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme.

Foreign interference occurs when activities are carried out by, or on behalf of, a foreign actor that are coercive, clandestine, deceptive or corrupting, and are contrary to Australia’s sovereignty, values and national interests.

The Australian Government has identified the higher education sector as being at particular risk of foreign interference, for example through the compromise of valuable research or sensitive data.

Universities must obtain declarations of interest from staff to identify risks of foreign interference, including foreign affiliations, relationships and financial interests.

At UOW, we have policies, processes, guidelines, checklists and websites that provide information and advice.

We also have people available to answer queries and help you understand the legislation and remain compliant:

a. The Research Integrity Office has oversight of Defence Export Controls and non-HDR-related sanctions.
b. Research Integrity Advisors are experienced researchers based in your School.
c. The Graduate Research School can assist with HDR recruitment involving sanctions.
d. For queries related to Foreign Arrangements, Foreign Influence or Foreign Interference, contact the Global Strategy Division.
e. There are checkpoints within grants processes.
f. There are checkpoints within commercial contracts processes through the Research Services Office.
g. The Research Services Office may also seek advice from UOW’s Legal team.

If you are:

a. Embarking on new international research
b. Engaging with a new international collaborator
c. Exporting something with potential dual-use in a military setting
d. Interacting with a person from a sanctioned regime
e. Involved in an activity that may require registration
f. Concerned that you may be at risk of foreign interference

Please speak up and seek advice.

Being transparent and accountable when collaborating internationally creates a safe and respectful environment, protects Australia’s national interests, and contributes to a positive reputation for the research community.

Contact us.

About foreign relations and international collaboration

Under the Principle 7, Accountability, and Responsibility 17 of the Code researchers have a responsibility to comply with relevant laws, regulations, disciplinary standards, ethics guidelines and institutional policies related to responsible research conduct and ensure that appropriate approvals are obtained prior to the commencement of research, and that conditional of any approvals are adhered to during the course of research.

There are a number of regulatory requirements designed to ensure that Australia’s national interest is protected. The investigators, partners and research area of all projects should be assessed to ensure the project complies with all assessment, permit and notification requirements for Defence Export Controls, Sanctions, Foreign Interference, the Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme and the Foreign Arrangements Scheme.

Information, including information on available training, can be found on the following webpages:

The contains a summary of these legislative elements and the  is designed to help staff navigate the legislative requirements and understand if a permit, notification or additional assessment is required.

Research is a valuable asset with international collaborations, one of many exposure points for research data and intellectual property. Researchers must take measures to protect their research and are asked to complete the UOW Foreign Engagements Declaration, and are also encouraged to familiarise themselves with the advice available on the Cyber safety at UOW webpage.

Researchers travelling overseas and needing to take their devices with them must take precautions to protect research assets. IMTS have provided a to answer some of the more common queries for overseas travel.

  • (internal)
  • (internal)
  •  

Authorship and publishing

The key principles that apply to authorship are Principle 5, Fairness, and Principle 7 Accountability.

The Fairness principle describes how researchers must treat fellow researchers and others involved in the research fairly and with respect, appropriately referencing and citing the work of others and giving credit, including authorship where appropriate, to those who have contributed to the research.

The Accountability principle describes how researchers are accountable for good stewardship of public resources and the requirement to stop and consider the consequences and outcomes of research prior to its communication.

The two principles are reinforced in Responsibility 19, 23, 24, 25, 26 and 27 which, in summary, outline:

  • Listed authors are all those, and only those, who have made a significant intellectual or scholarly contribution
  • All authors have agreed to be listed as an author
  • That those who have contributed, but not entitled to authorship, are acknowledged
  • Other relevant work has been cited appropriately and accurately
  • Research findings are disseminated responsibly, accurately and broadly with action taken to correct the record in a timely manner, where necessary

Further information can be found in in the (“the Code”), the and .

The UOW ,  and  reflect the principles and responsibilities set out in the Code and its supporting guidelines. There are two forms that can be used to keep track of authorship agreements made between researchers collaborating on a publication.

The is designed to formalise discussions and agreements for a single research output such as a publication.

The is designed to capture agreements made at the commencement of a research project which may result in multiple research outputs. It can be used in conjunction with the form.

Open Access is the publication of scholarly work that can be freely accessed by anyone in the world via the internet with research freely and immediately accessible to readers rather than kept behind a pay wall or only accessible via a subscription or library service.

UOW is committed to the dissemination and promotion of its research findings as widely as possible with its Open Access Principles which provide guidance reflective of the principles outlined in the Code.

Researchers must check and comply with any requirements related to funding or commercial agreements when making their publishing decisions.

Further considerations to assist making an informed decision about responsible publishing and open access can be found in these resources:

  •  

I’d like to understand more about Predatory Publishing – where can I find information?

The Research Integrity Office provides micro-training on predatory publishing which is available in the .

The UOW Library provides the , to assist researchers in submitting research manuscripts to reputable publishers. The guideline provides information on indicators to assess publication outlet quality to enable researchers to make responsible decisions in dissemination of their research findings.

Researchers are encouraged to contact the Research & Engagement Librarian team for advice on publishing and use of the journal quality tools. The Research Integrity Office is also available to provide further information on responsible publishing practices.

I believe I have been a victim of a predatory publisher – where can I find help?

If you would like some additional advice when checking whether a journal or conference is predatory or legitimate, there are a number of avenues to assist:

  • Researchers are encouraged to contact the Research & Engagement Librarian team for advice on publishing and use of the journal quality tools or for assistance with legitimacy of publisher emails.
  • Research Integrity Advisors are experienced researchers that can provide guidance or advice pertaining to Research Integrity and may be able to assist with journal knowledge specific to your discipline.
  • HDR Students may wish to ask their supervisors for advice.

UOW maintains a record of incidents of predatory publishing. If you have witnessed your research or name on a predatory publisher website or conference page, you are advised to report to uow-researchintegrity@uow.edu.au. Researchers will be asked to capture an image of the website and provide a website link and any background information, and will be provided advice on the next steps.

Where can I find guidance on reputable publishers?

The UOW Library provides the , which contains tools on how to identify quality journals and conferences.

You may also wish to review  on qualities and features of reputable publishers and journals

You can email or call the Research Integrity Office or our Research Integrity Advisor Network is available to all staff and students.

Additional help and support services are provided.

Research Data Management

Research data is a valuable asset. It is a requirement that researchers engage good research data management practices to protect and maintain it.

In 2019, the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), the Australian Research Council (ARC) and Universities Australia released the in Research. This guide, which supports the , outlines that responsible data management is a shared responsibility with institutions and researchers both having accountability for the integrity of research data and adherence to the principles of the Code along with institutional policies, relevant laws, regulations, guidelines and discipline specific practices and standards.

Responsibility 22 of the Code establishes that researchers must retain clear, accurate, secure and complete records of all research including research data and primary materials and, where possible and appropriate, allow access and reference to these by interested parties. To enable researchers to meet responsibility 22, UOW provides a research data management policy suite along with research data guidance and training across all stages of the research data lifecycle. Detailed information is outlined on the UOW Managing Research Data webpage. 

Mismanagement of data and information in research is a concern which can result in a breach of the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research. The UOW is designed to help researchers navigate their responsibilities, providing valuable insights for data management and enhancing the quality and integrity of research data, enabling the requirements of the Code to be met.

The and associated guidelines outline a comprehensive set of expected practices for managing data across the research lifecycle.

The UOW Research Services Office is the central point of contact for researchers with questions about research data management and can provide information and support for the administration and management of research data including research data management plans, data storage options, research data archiving and disposal and policy advice. Further information is available on the UOW Managing Research Data webpage.

The UOW Library guide to provides information on preparation, managing and publishing data, including information on licensing datasets.

The UOW Research Integrity Office provides guidance on matters relating to responsible research data practices. Advice can also be provided by contacting a Research Integrity Advisor.

The UOW Human Ethics team can provide guidance on data management as it related to the .

Online training and recordings of previous webinars are available in Moodle – refer to the UOW Managing Research Data website for further information on available training. HDR Candidates may also like to check the or the Researcher Development Hub for additional information on the available training.

Research supervision

UOW’s requires that researchers conduct supervisory activities in accordance with the  and the .

In summary, these documents outline the following activities are the responsibility of a supervising researcher:

  • Providing guidance and mentorship on responsible research conduct
  • Monitoring the conduct of those under supervision
  • Undertaking and promoting education and training in responsible research conduct

A deviation from the responsibilities outlined in the or the is known as a breach.

Breaches are considered on a severity scale from minor breach to major breach with more severe, or multiple breaches, being referred to as research misconduct. Before assessment or investigation, a concern is known as a “potential breach”.

It is important research supervisors are prepared for a situation where they are concerned with the research integrity of those conducting research under their supervision. Research supervisors are encouraged to:

  • Know how to identify a potential breach of research integrity in work of those under supervision
  • Get to know staff in the Research Integrity Development and Ethics Office
  • Be aware of the Research Integrity Advisor Network at UOW and how they can assist should an issue arise

If a research supervisor has a query or concern regarding the research integrity of someone under their supervision, they can discuss with staff in the Research Integrity Development and Ethics Office or a Research Integrity Advisor.

A concern relating to a potential breach can be lodged with the UOW Complaints Management Centre. The UOW Complaints Management Centre are responsible for triaging, managing and investigating concerns in accordance with the .

The following policies outline roles and responsibilities regarding research supervision at UOW:

In addition, the provides a range of resources to assist researchers supervising HDR candidates.

  • Supervisory roles and policies at UOW are guided by the . Additional resources related to research supervision in Australia are listed in this document.
  • (US Office of Research Integrity)
  • (UK Research Integrity Office)
  • (UK Research Integrity Office)

For Supervisors

The provides a range of resources including information on and the process.  The training series is designed to provide researchers with essential knowledge regarding their responsibilities to their students and UOW.

For HDR candidates

The includes information on which includes a range of resources and advice for HDR candidates looking to contribute to a responsible professional relationship and positive collaboration with their supervisory team

UOW provides a number of training opportunities for students. These opportunities should be promoted by supervisors, with research students encouraged to attend to develop their skills and knowledge of responsible research practices.

Refer to the Help – Advice and Support Services section of this webpage for further assistance.

Generative artificial intelligence (Gen-AI)

UOW researchers are responsible for ensuring their research meets the expectations of the and the . UOW is committed to a culture of responsible research reflective of the 8 principles of research integrity – honesty, rigour, transparency, fairness, respect, recognition, accountability and promotion.

The potential of generative AI to support research is significant, however it is important to recognise that it also entails risks in terms of research integrity, data validity and data security. Before embarking on use of generative AI in conducting research activities, researchers should reflect on the principles of responsible research and ensure they:

  • Consider the limitations and risks of generative AI tools.
  • Exercise care and consideration, safeguarding against any breach of their legal or ethical obligations, particularly in relation to privacy and confidentiality.
  • Consider the ownership of their research outputs.

Data Privacy and Security    

The following types of data must not be provided to third party generative AI tools (e.g. ChatGPT):

  • data subject to privacy legislation (e.g. identifiable human data, private/personal information)
  • human research data (e.g. participant data collected in research). Please contact the Ethics Office for further advice.
  • controlled data (such as information on technology that appears on the Defence and Strategic Goods List. Providing detail to an AI tool hosted outside Australia would be considered exported and subject to legislative permit requirements)
  • commercial-in-confidence data or data protected by copyright or intellectual property
  • data that has been provided in confidence (such as religious or cultural knowledge or information related to the location of a vulnerable species)

Further information on the expectations and responsibilities for the management of research data can be found in the Research Data Management Policy.

Intellectual Property (IP), Copyright and Licensing Agreements

There are potential legal implications in relation to intellectual property, copyright and licensing agreements that need to be considered.

Data for training AI models may be sourced from user interactions. Once information is submitted to a third party AI tool which is hosted externally, it can be considered as part of the public domain. When researchers share data or information with an AI tool, they could effectively allow their ideas and research to be used by others without due recognition.

Submitting information to an AI tool which is subject to copyright (such as a journal article to be summarised) may be a violation of copyright regulations. Similarly, the content created by an AI tool could be subject to copyright; be the intellectual property of another; or the AI tool may not provide a citation to the original source or may fabricate sources and their citations.

Limitations of data produced by generative AI tools

The main source of data used by AI tools is material harvested from the internet. AI tools do not necessarily have access to the full archive of publications (behind paywalls) with their “knowledge” limited to publicly available information. The outputs of AI tools may amplify certain views, repeat controversial information, be biased, be outdated and produce statements that are not grounded in the training data (often called “hallucination”). If used in research, these outputs can lead to misleading or inaccurate findings.

In contemplating using an AI tool to generate data for research, consider the following:

  • Assess the data set used by the tool and well as the output generated, reviewing for inaccuracies, gaps, bias
  • Review the currency of the dataset – when was it last updated?
  • Review the training of the tool - how well has the tool has been trained?
  • Read any reviews of the tool – what are others reporting of their experience?
  • What level of reliability do you need to meet your requirements and maintain integrity?

Ethical Considerations

Researchers must meet the requirements of the national ethics guidelines and respect any project-specific conditions of consent, confidentiality obligations or other sensitivities. For example, data that is subject to privacy legislation (e.g. identifiable human data) or data that has been provided in confidence (such as religious or cultural knowledge or information related to the location of a vulnerable species).

Be accountable – generative AI cannot be an author

Authors of research outputs are all those, and only those, who have made a significant intellectual or scholarly contribution to the research and its output, and that agree to be listed as an author. Authors are also accountable for the research output and are required to disclose and manage any conflicts of interest. As Gen-AI tools cannot be held accountable for the output or disclose bias, they cannot be listed as an author.

Be transparent - acknowledge use in research outputs

If an AI tool is used in the production of a research output for publication, be transparent and include a clear acknowledgement to indicate which AI tool was used, how the tool was used and any limitations. Metadata including the version of the tool and the date used should also be retained.

Check with individual publishers on any recent changes to their policy regarding the use and acknowledgement of AI tools in the production of journal articles.

Be fair - generative AI cannot be used in peer review

Researchers have a responsibility to participate in peer review in a way that is fair, rigorous and timely and maintains the confidentiality of the content. A peer review must be completed objectively, impartially, in accordance with review criteria and give proper consideration to current thinking.

In accordance with NHMRC and ARC policies, peer reviewers must not input any part of a grant application, or information from a grant application, into a generative AI tool. Entering information from a manuscript or grant application or thesis submitted for examination to an AI tool in order to generate a peer review would be considered a breach of confidentiality.

Be careful – using generative AI for editing

An AI tool presents an opportunity to improve the quality of writing, refinement of text and to assist with summarising. When AI tools are used for editing purposes, they may exclude or add content to the provided text or even, on occasion, produce 'hallucinations'. Further, they may not correct or may introduce grammatical errors or may generate statements with poor expressions. Researchers must take on the responsibility of carefully verifying the output. Use of editorial tools and/or editing services must be consistent with responsible research practices and acknowledged in research outputs.

In pursuit of better writing outcomes, it is crucial to consider the type of information and data that is being provided and whether this information is confidential, sensitive or subject to intellectual property regulations.

Yes, potentially. Researchers are responsible for adhering to the applicable legislation, policies, guidelines and national statements that guide research. They must proceed with care and consideration of the principles and their responsibilities under the Code. Consider the following:

  • Use AI tools with a clear understanding that the tools have biases, limitations, risks and other associated problems.
  • Remain vigilant in the information released to third party platforms and consider the outcomes.
  • Researchers remain accountable for their research outputs.
  • Guidance on what constitutes responsible use in research is limited. What is considered an acceptable, or unacceptable, use of generative AI today may be perceived differently in the future.
  • Public trust is crucial for the future of research. Maintain integrity, transparency and honesty.

UOW has policies and procedures for the management of potential breaches in research:

About research integrity breaches at UOW

Australian Research Council (ARC)

  • , released on 7 July, 2023 providing guidance for applicants and assessors of its grants program.

National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC)

  • , published on 29 June 2023.

Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TESQA)

  • Using Generative AI in research – 10 tips released August 2023
  • Webinar: Generative AI: what do researchers need to know now? – in association with Deakin University in July 2023

Further information can be found on 

Department of Industry, Science and Resources

  • released in 2019 to guide the responsible design, development and implementation of AI.

Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE)

  • outlining the responsible use of artificial intelligence in research outputs.

Policy statements on the use of AI tools in producing research publications have been issued by some publishers. Authors of research outputs are encouraged to check with the individual publisher in regard to their specific policy.

The Learning and Teaching hub has collated a collection of resources and information related to the impact of artificial intelligence on learning and teaching.

Research Integrity Advisors (RIA) are the first point of contact if you have questions about responsible research practices. Staff and student researchers with questions, concerns or in need of guidance or advice are welcome to approach any RIA from any discipline. The Research Integrity and Ethics Unit also has staff available to assist with queries, concerns and advice.

As always, Information Management & Technology Services (IMTS) can be contacted on ex3000 (if calling from a UOW owned device), or 02 4221 3000 for assistance with software downloading and use.

This guidance will be updated as technology evolves. Any feedback on the advice offered here can be sent to the Research Integrity and Ethics Unit.

Conflicts of Interest in Research at UOW

Conflicts of interest can be quite common in research. Left undisclosed and unmanaged they can compromise the integrity of research. Do you know how to recognise one? And once recognised do you know how to manage it?  Watch the short video to learn more. You can also access this video and additional resources (training, a -quick 5 question quiz and policy documents) in our Moodle book.

Learn more about conflicts of interest in research

Imagine you’re navigating a clear path in your research, but sometimes hidden obstacles can steer you off course.

Conflicts of interest in research can be actual, potential or perceived and can arise when personal interests, financial ties or external pressures influence your research decisions.

The complex relationships between public and private organisations, industry, funders and researchers can involve secondary interests that may lead to a conflict.

When conflicts of interest go unreported and are not managed, they can mislead conclusions, harm credibility and undermine trust in research outputs and their impact.

Transparency is key to practising responsible research.

Identify your interests. Declare your interests. Avoid the detour. Keep your research on track and ensure ongoing public trust.

Maintain integrity in your research.

Be transparent.

It’s your responsibility as a researcher.

Conflicts of interest in research

Under the  a conflict of interest exists in a situation where an independent observer might reasonably conclude that the professional actions of a person are or may be unduly influenced by other interests. This refers to a financial or non-financial interest that may be a perceived, potential or actual conflict of interest.

The key principle that applies in the practice of responsible researching is Principle 3, Transparency. This principle includes the responsibility to disclose interests and manage conflicts of interest. The transparency principle is reinforced in Responsibility R24 which requires researchers to disclose and manage actual, potential or perceived conflicts of interest.

Conflicts of interest in research are common. With more diverse and global collaborations there is greater potential for overlapping interests coupled with increasing requirements to declare interests for reasons of national security. There is also increased scrutiny by journals, publishers, funders and the public who are demanding greater transparency.

The existence of a conflict of interest does not imply wrongdoing however to maintain trust in research it is essential that research activity is carried out (and is seen to be carried out) in an impartial and independent manner and is not compromised by any interests.

To avoid compromising research, responsible researchers:

  1. Disclose interests in a timely manner
  2. Update disclosures as they occur and disclose at least annually
  3. Maintain records related to the disclosure and how the disclosure is managed

A failure to disclose a relevant interest in relation to a research project or a failure to manage an interest as agreed are potential breaches of the Code. Potential breaches are managed in accordance with UOW’s .

  • supporting guideline

Training:

The UOW Research Integrity Office maintains information and training for  as well as offering micro-training in the . The content is available to both staff and students.

UOW offers .

Declarations:

The UOW Conflict of Interest Declaration Form and the Foreign Engagements Declaration Form can be found in the .

Refer to the Help – Advice and Support Services section of this webpage for further assistance.

Frequently asked questions

The  provides the governance framework for Research Integrity at UOW. UOW’s  mandates the broad principles and behaviours that characterise the responsible conduct of research. Researchers new to research and/or new to UOW are highly encouraged to familiarise themselves with both of these documents.

In addition, new researchers should consider the following:

  • Review the information in the
  • HDR Students can learn more by attending HDR Orientation and HDR Training – information available from the Graduate Research School
  • Staff researchers can learn more at Academic Induction – check the for further information
  • Review the to understand more about UOW’s governance framework for Research Integrity

Further information to assist researchers to research with integrity:

Want to know more or have a specific question?

Reach out to our Research Integrity Officer to learn more about Research Integrity and our approach at UOW. The Research Integrity Officer can also arrange specific training to meet your needs which can be as formal or informal as you require.

Alternatively, UOW has an established network of academic staff called Research Integrity Advisors who can assist you with discipline and research specific questions and concerns about integrity.

Refer to the About breaches, concerns and complaints section for further information and the Help – Advice and Support Services section for information on people available to help you.

Training and development

Available online anytime, this training provides a certificate of completion which can be used as evidence of completion of recognised research integrity training.

Academic staff researchers:

HDR Candidates:

Postgraduate/Honours/Undergraduate students:

Professional staff:  

Research Integrity Advisors (RIAs): training is accessed free of charge via ARMS by and then following the .

Available online anytime and include a certificate of completion:

  •  

In your role you may also be required to complete related training in Academic Integrity, Research Data Management, Human Ethics, Animal Ethics, Defence Export Controls or other regulatory or safety training. 

Perfect for including into training programs or sharing in newsletters or school meetings, each micro-training topic in the can be completed in under 10 minutes and includes options for further learning or reading. We routinely add to the library and advertise new releases via research newsletters.  

The   is a central portal for research staff to access all the development opportunities available to researchers.

The Graduate Researcher Education and Development webpage lists current development initiatives on offer to HDR candidates and contains links to the hub with current events and recordings of past sessions.

The  is a one-stop shop for information, tools and forms you need as a researcher and includes a .

Bespoke training for your school or research group can be requested by contacting the Research Integrity Office to discuss your training needs. Training can be as formal or informal as required.

  • Australasian Research Management Society offers a .
  • Health Translation Queensland have and provide regular webinars on a variety of topics including the .
  • UK Research Integrity Office (UKRIO) holds .
  • US Office of Research Integrity (ORI) offers numerous online resources for laboratory and research clinic-based researchers. Interactive videos include and . They also offer and have developed a addressing research.integrity topics.

Help – advice and support services

  • Research Integrity Advisors on good or questionable research practices and the policy and processes for investigating a concern, complaint or potential breach
  • Faculty Research Operations Unit support the Associate Deans (Research) and provide Faculty support for research ethics and integrity. The team can also assist with directing researchers to their Faculty / School Associate Dean (Research), Associate Dean (Higher Degree Research), Head of Postgraduate Studies or Head of School.

  • Drop-in sessions:
    • A staff member from the Research Integrity Office can be found at the (staff only)
    • Human Ethics team offer on-campus consultation sessions for UOW researchers. While registration is not mandatory it is appreciated, please register your attendance with the Human Ethics team.

If you have a concern related to your own research or in the research of others and wish to formally report, then you should submit via the Complaints Management Centre.

You can email or call the Research Integrity Office or our Research Integrity Advisor Network is available to all staff and students.

Additional help and support services are provided.

Lodging a complaint, responding to a complaint or being involved in a research integrity investigation can be challenging. UOW provides the following services to assist with a range of work and personal issues that may impact on you:

  • The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides staff with confidential counselling services designed to enhance the emotional, mental and general psychological well-being of employees
  • Student Support Coordinators can help with issues affecting student health and welfare and can help research students navigate the range of services and assistance available.
  • UOW Counselling Services is staffed by professional counsellors who offer free short-term confidential psychological intervention for students.
  • The Graduate Research School lists a range of HDR Support Contacts on their website

Contact the Research Integrity team

(02) 4221 4607 uow-researchintegrity@uow.edu.au
Looking for someone in particular? Meet the research services team