K. Allegations of research misconduct
K.1 The MRC takes allegations of misconduct in research very seriously and requires that allegations be investigated fully. Research misconduct is defined by the MRC and RCUK as follows:
- Fabrication.
- Falsification.
- Plagiarism.
- Misrepresentation.
- Mismanagement or inadequate preservation of data and/or related materials.
- Breach of duty of care.
These terms are defined in detail in the RCUK Policy and Code of Conduct and the process for investigating allegations in the MRC Procedure for investigating allegations of misconduct in research.
K.2 The MRC requires organisations receiving MRC funding to have appropriate processes for addressing allegations of misconduct. The process for reporting concerns and making formal allegations must be clear and accessible. Processes for investigating allegations must be thorough, fair, constructive, conclusive and timely.
The MRC procedure for investigating allegations of misconduct in research outlines the process which applies within MRC research units and institutes.
The MRC procedure also acts as a guide to the MRC’s expectations as they relate to the requirements outlined by RCUK.
K.3 The MRC expects that wherever possible allegations of misconduct will be raised with the researcher’s employer directly. However, where allegations relating to MRC-funded researchers, or to applications for funding, are reported to the MRC, the matter will be raised with the relevant research organisation(s), in confidence, at the earliest opportunity. The MRC reserves the right to take appropriate action after consultation with the research organisation.
K.4 As a research funder the MRC should be informed, in confidence, of any formal investigations of research misconduct relating to any individual funded by, or engaged with, the MRC, including those acting as a supervisor for an MRC postgraduate student or engaged with peer review activities, even where the work to which the allegation relates is not connected with an MRC-funded project. The MRC reserves the right to take appropriate action, after consultation with the research organisation, about any duties being performed for the MRC.
K.5 Where any investigation finds a distortion or inaccuracy in the published research record, the institution should take all necessary steps to correct the public record.
K.6 Arrangements for handling allegations relating to research misconduct should be addressed explicitly in collaborative research agreements, particularly those involving international partners.
K.7 The MRC expects research organisations to be aware of the potential for fraud in relation to the conduct of research (for example, duplicate applications for research funds for a project already funded) and have arrangements in place to address any such allegations.
