LSTM has developed a Research Integrity Statement which sets out LSTM’s expectations, and the resources available to help research comply with these requirements. Under the Research Integrity banner are policies and guidelines relating to research ethics, misconduct as well as training resources.
The Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine expects all researchers, be they staff, students or visitors, to abide by national, European and international standards of research integrity. This includes:
Honesty in all aspects of research, including:
- presentation of research goals, intentions and findings
- reporting on research methods and procedures
- gathering data
- using and acknowledging the work of other researchers
- conveying valid interpretations and making justifiable claims based on research findings
Scrupulous care, thoroughness and Excellence in research practice:
- in performing research and using appropriate methods
- in adhering to an agreed protocol where appropriate
- in drawing interpretations and conclusions from the research
- in communicating the results
Transparency and open communication:
- in declaring conflicts of interest
- in the reporting of research data collection methods
- in the analysis and interpretation of data
- in making research findings widely available, including sharing negative results as appropriate
- in presenting the work to other researchers and to the general public
Care and respect for:
- All participants in and subjects of research, including humans, animals, the environment and cultural objects
- The stewardship of research and scholarship for future generations.
In addition to these core principles, researchers should ensure that their research is conducted according to appropriate ethical, legal and professional frameworks, obligations and standards. This includes seeking ethical approval for research where appropriate. Researchers are also expected to treat colleagues with integrity, honesty and collegiality, including the fair provision of references and peer review.
As part of its commitment to the principles of the Concordat, LSTM will support researchers to maintain the highest standards of integrity in research by:
- providing clear policies and procedures, as well as training and guidance to help researchers better understand how to maintain high standards of research integrity
- having suitable mechanisms for reviewing ethical issues raised by research
- using transparent, robust and fair processes to deal with allegations of research misconduct
- defending researchers who live up to high standards in difficult circumstances and any individual who, in good faith, reports research misconduct at LSTM
- continuing to work to strengthen the integrity of its research through regular review and monitoring of its support, policies and procedures in line with the latest regulatory and ethical requirements
LSTM has a number of policies that relate to research integrity issues. These include
LSTM Good Research Conduct & Integrity Policy
LSTM Policy and Procedure on Handling Allegations of Research Misconduct
LSTM Anti Bribery Policy
LSTM Policy on Social Accountability
LSTM Conflict of Interest Policy
LSTM Publications Policy
LSTM Financial Regulations 2015 (Including Fraud and Whistle Blowing)
