University of the West of Scotland is committed to promoting and upholding the highest quality academic and ethical standards in all scientific research activities. Governance and integrity are essential to ensure the rights of research participants are safeguarded. 

The University has developed research governance and ethics procedures which recognise the importance of addressing ethical matters (including publication ethics, general principles of data confidentiality and access), while supporting the achievement of its collective research objectives. 

Refer to our Policies, Procedures and Guidance pages for further information on the institution's regulations.

Oversight of Academic Integrity

Academic Integrity at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS) is overseen by the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Professor Robert MacIntosh (Email: Robert.MacIntosh@uws.ac.uk).

The administrative lead for anyone wanting more information on matters of integrity is the Head of Research, Helen Kennedy (Email integrity@uws.ac.uk) and queries should be directed to Helen in the first instance.

 

Research Excellence

UWS adheres to a number of external concordats to ensure an environment of research excellence, including: 

Research Integrity and Ethics

The University expects the highest standards in the conduct of all research undertaken in its name and on its premises using its facilities. This includes research undertaken by staff, students, honorary, visiting or emeritus staff, associates, contractors and consultants.

Specific policies, procedures and guidelines related to research integrity are available on the Policies, Procedures and Guidance pages on this website.

The University is a signatory to the UK Concordat to support research integrity (2019) and is committed to its five core principles: honesty, rigour, transparency and open communication, care and respect, and accountability.

In line with the Concordat to support Research Integrity, the University presents a short annual statement on research integrity and misconduct to its governing body. Statements from previous years are found below.

Annual Statement on Research Integrity

The Annual Statement on Research Integrity forms part of the University’s commitment to outline the actions and initiatives to sustain and enhance the integrity of the University’s research.

This statement has been reviewed by the University Academic Integrity and Ethics Committee and approved by the Court of the University of the West of Scotland.

Statement on Research INtegrity for Academic Year 2022-23 (pdf)

Statement on Research Integrity for Academic Year 2021-22 (pdf)

Statement on Research Integrity for Academic Year 2020-21 (pdf)

Academic Freedom Statement

Download the UWS Academic Freedom Statement (pdf)

 

Academic Integrity Charter

UWS has signed up to the QAA Academic Integrity Charter. The Charter provides the baseline position for UWS to continue to develop our own high standards and outstanding quality procedures and practices to ensure every student’s qualification is genuine, verifiable and respected

Commitment to GDPR

The Data Protection Code of Practice is in place to make sure everyone, staff and students understands the way in which data protection applies to their roles within the University. It also makes sure we meet the requirements set out in Article 24(2) of the GDPR, which requires the University, as a data controller, to have in place an appropriate data protection policy to make sure we meet our obligations under the legislation.  It also applies to any third parties who process data on behalf of UWS.

Last updated: 27/11/2023