Research governance, ethics and integrity

Research integrity

The University is committed to undertaking high quality research in an environment of high standards of research integrity, governance and good practice.

Research governance

Sharing research data

Find out about sharing research data via the University's Research Data Repository.

Research data management plans

Many funders now require, as part of their data policy, that a data management and sharing plan is submitted as part of each research grant application.

Due diligence background and context

If your research proposal or project involves co-investigators from overseas organisations or a UK based organisation that is not a HEI, we must complete proportionate financial and capability due diligence checks.

Due diligence risk approach and policy

Due diligence provides a way to mitigate potential risks (financial and reputational), share good practice and have assurance that all partners have the capacity and expertise to undertake the planned activities.

Due diligence guidance for Pls

As Principle Investigators (PIs) you have an important role in facilitating the due diligence process.

Security-sensitive research materials

Find out which materials are recognised as security-sensitive research materials.

Trusted Research

Trusted Research refers to principles and policies that support the integrity of international research collaborations for UK research institutions.

Trusted Research and Visitors to the University

If you have plans to host visitors to the University, including researchers, research students and delegations, there are some things you should consider in relation to Trusted Research.

Sanctions

Sanctions can affect research projects because the University may be prohibited from sharing funds, providing assistance or collaborating on research with sanctioned entities.

Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS)

The UK Government has introduced The Foreign Influence Registration Scheme (FIRS) to protect the safety and interests of the UK by improving the understanding of activity taking place in the UK at the instruction of a foreign state or certain foreign state‑controlled organisations. The legislation requires individuals or organisations who are carrying out certain activities at the direction of a foreign power to register with the scheme.

Ethical approval

Applying for University ethical approval

All research involving human participants, whether undertaken by the University's staff or students, must undergo an ethics review and ethical approval must be obtained before it commences.

Template participant consent form and participant information sheet

Providing information to participants and gaining consent from participants before their involvement is a critical part of conducting ethical research.

Additional information for specific types of ethics applications

For certain projects, a customised process which facilitates ethical review for specific types of applications has been developed.

University ethics review process

The University operates a tiered approach to ethics review based on an assessment of the risks involved to research participants, both subjects and investigators.

Ethics Sub-Committee meeting dates and submission deadlines

Most University ethics applications involve minimal risk and are reviewed through ERAMS by an Ethics Officer without the need to be referred to an Ethics Sub-Committee.

Extensions and amendments

Once you have received a favourable ethical opinion, if your project changes and no longer reflects that which you described in your original application; or if your project needs to be extended you must submit an amendment using ERAMS.

Projects already approved by another organisation

If you have received a favourable ethical opinion from an ethics review body external to the University of Essex, you need to register the external approval.

Guidance on ethical issues involved in research with humans their data or samples

The guidance on this page covers ethics issues you may need to consider when completing your ethics application form if you are conducting research involving human participants, their data or samples.

Guidance on ethical issues involved in research with animals

This document sets out the University requirements, including the protection and rights of animal subjects and researchers.

Training and induction

Resources for staff and students applying for ethical approval

Resources for ethics reviewers

Useful links for ethics reviewers

Projects involving the NHS MOD HMPPS or health and social care services

If your project involves NHS participants it may require a review through the Health Research Authority (HRA)

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