Research with integrity: what the Office of Research Integrity can do for you

Scientific research produces substantial social benefits, but this should never come at the cost of individual rights. As a research-intensive university, UCT’s research practices must comply with the highest ethical standards in social and scientific research. The Office of Research Integrity (ORI) are advocates for responsible research conducted ethically and with integrity. Their role is to guide UCT’s research community to sustain and enhance responsible conduct of research and ensure compliance with the highest applicable national and international ethical and legal standards.

What we can do for you

Each faculty is different and has unique processes.

• We provide advice on the best course of action for your research ethics or integrity-related query.
• We can provide tools and resources to help your research meet the highest ethical and legal standards.
• We can direct you towards appropriate faculty-based resources for your research integrity-related queries. 
• We advise ethics committees on international best practice and legal frameworks while respecting their decision-making autonomy.
• We advise faculty management around processes to respond to allegations of questionable research practice or misconduct.
• We communicate with key government stakeholders and departments to better understand compliance regulations and obtain permits.
• We offer training around responsible conduct of research which includes, but is not limited to:
  • authorship practices
  • research misconduct and questionable research practices
  • navigating research collaborations and
  • conflicts of interest/commitment.

What we can’t do for you

• We can’t interfere or intervene in faculty-based ethics committee decisions. But we can advise on the appropriate appeal process, should you be eligible.
• We can’t investigate, review, assess or intervene in research misconduct, questionable research practices or authorship disputes/procedures. But we can advise you regarding your faculty’s processes, what your next steps could be and who best to contact.
• We can’t advise you against compliance with legal or regulatory processes, such as obtaining the necessary permits to conduct research or import your materials. But we can help you to comply with those processes.

For more information or with research ethics related support please email research.integrity@uct.ac.za