Curtin University is guided by the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research (the Code), which establishes a framework for responsible research conduct and articulates the broad principles that characterise an honest, ethical and conscientious research culture.
The Code provides the foundation for high-quality research, credibility and community trust in the research endeavour. It sets out the principles and responsibilities that researchers and institutions are expected to follow when conducting research, recognising that the primary responsibility for ensuring the integrity of research lies with individual researchers and institutions.
The Code also represents the core behaviours that characterise the responsible conduct of research. A failure to meet the principles and responsibilities set out in the Code is a breach of the Code. Breaches occur on a spectrum from minor breaches to those that are more serious. A serious breach carried out with intent, recklessness or negligence may be referred to as research misconduct and may require formal investigation and corrective action to protect the integrity of the research record.
If you have are concerned about an incidence of research misconduct at Curtin, you can lodge a complaint through the Integrity and Standards Unit.
The National Health and Medical Research Council’s (NHMRC) has developed a Good Institutional Practice Guide which brings together information on values, concepts and ideas that underpin a high-quality research culture.
Developed to support institutional and research leaders as they implement positive change, the Guide can be used by anyone involved with the conduct, administration and oversight of research.
To strengthen its research culture, Curtin requires all Research and Research and Teaching staff complete the Research Integrity Training Program (RI Training Program) (via iPerform), which is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of their obligations as a researcher to conduct research responsibly, and with integrity. There are four (4) modules to complete for staff, and an additional nine (9) non-mandatory modules.
Staff are currently required to complete the following four (4) compulsory modules, namely:
For HDR students, it is compulsory to complete all thirteen (13) modules of the RI Training Program (via Blackboard). It is an essential requirement as part of Milestone One (M1). The Graduate Research School (GRS) can assist HDR students in relation to your requisite training.
If you would Research Integrity training for your School or Centre, we can facilitate workshops on a request basis – please Contact Us
Curtin has academic staff appointed to the roles of Research Integrity Advisors (RIAs). RIAs are nominated, trained and supported to promote the responsible conduct of research by providing advice on research practices and researcher responsibilities as well as advice to those with concerns or complaints about potential breaches of the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research (the Code).
If you would like advice on research integrity, you can reach out to one of the RIAs listed on the website linked above. While they are grouped by schools and centres, you can reach out to any of the RIAs, it does not have to be someone from within your school or faculty.
The following research policies cover matters pertaining to research conduct
The following policies and documents are also relevant to research conduct