Research ethics and integrity
The University of Stirling is committed to the highest possible ethical standards. We promote a culture of best practice and integrity in all our research through the core values of honesty, rigour, open communication, care, and respect. To safeguard the interests of researchers, participants and funding bodies, research within the University only proceeds after strict scrutiny by one of our three internal Research Ethics Panels.
Read more about the research values we hold to in The Concordat to Support Research Integrity.
Upholding ethical standards
Animal research at the University of Stirling
As part of every research project we undertake, we ensure the highest possible care and ethical standards, promoting a culture of best practice.
NHS, Invasive or Clinical Research (NICR)
Governing any health/patient research requiring approval by the NHS Research Ethics Committee and/or taking place with NHS staff, patients or on NHS premises.
General University Ethics Panel (GUEP)
The GUEP considers most research proposals which do not involve animals, require approval by the NHS Research Ethics Committee or involve physically invasive procedures or intrusive interventions on human participants.
Epigeum Online Ethics Training
Research Ethics in Practice is a self-paced, practical guide exploring working with human participants, approvals, confidentiality, consent, data management, working ethically in challenging
How to access
All undergraduate students and postgraduate taught can access the training resources via the internal student Ethics Review Manager webpage.
Postgraduate researchers and research active staff can access resources on the dedicated Researcher Development SharePoint site.
UKRIO Introduction to Research Integrity Training
UKRIO Research Integrity and Research Ethics Training
The University of Stirling are subscribers to the UK Research Integrity Office (UKRIO). As part of our subscription, we have access to training courses provided by UKRIO these include:
Introduction to Research Integrity is an online self-paced four-module course which offers a strong foundation in research integrity principles and practical guidance on applying them in everyday research practice. Content includes topics on research ethics, conflicts of interest, data management, authorship, and AI.
The ethics of research involving human participants: an introduction an online self-paced module offering a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practice of research ethics in studies involving human participants. You’ll learn how to embed ethical thinking into every stage of the research process equipping you to prepare confidently for ethics review, recognise challenges early, and respond with sound judgement.
Navigating the complexity, risks, and benefits of emotionally challenging or sensitive research an online self-paced module designed for anyone involved in emotionally challenging or sensitive research. You’ll develop a clear understanding of what this research involves, the potential risks and benefits, and how research context and perspective shape ethical decision-making.
Research with children and young people an online self-paced module which provides essential guidance for anyone conducting research with children and young people. You’ll gain key principles, concepts, and methods – along with practical skills and up-to-date insights to strengthen your work.
How to access
This training is available to all members of the University. Complete our expression of interest form to receive a link to the training.
Research governance
Find out how our structure promotes a culture of research integrity.
Dissertations
Every student dissertation should be considered for ethical implications.
Contact us
If you have a general question about our ethics policies and procedures, please get in touch.