Research governance

RCSI is committed to the carrying out research to the highest standards of professionalism and scientific rigour to ensure the accuracy and integrity of our research outputs.

Our approach aligns with the European Code of Conduct for Research Integrity which specifies four fundamental principles that underpin all research integrity and good practice.

These principles which guide researchers with the practical, ethical and intellectual challenges inherent in research are:

• Reliability in ensuring the quality of research, reflected in the design, the methodology, the analysis and the use of resources.
• Honesty in developing, undertaking, reviewing, reporting and communicating research in a transparent, fair, full and unbiased way.
• Respect for colleagues, research participants, society, ecosystems, cultural heritage and the environment.
• Accountability for the research from idea to publication, for its management and organisation, for training, supervision and mentoring and for its wider impacts.

To ensure that these principles are adhered to all researchers carrying out studies at RCSI must comply with appropriate Irish law and policy, including licensing requirements, and with all policies of RCSI including the Code of Research Conduct. This code incorporates the National Policy Statement on Ensuring Research Integrity in Ireland which has been adopted by the Irish Universities Association including RCSI.

Further information on our practices and policies in relation to research misconduct or breaches of the RCSI Code of Research Conduct can be found in the Researcher Handbook. 

Export controls

Export controls are legal requirements designed to prevent the unauthorised use or proliferation of certain goods, technologies, and services. The EU enforces export controls on sensitive items to prevent the spread of weapons of mass destruction, safeguard regional stability, combat terrorism, and protect human rights and compliance is critical. Researchers must understand their responsibilities to ensure adherence to export control laws.

Violating export control laws is a serious offence, with penalties including fines or imprisonment. Both individuals and institutions can be prosecuted. In Ireland, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment is responsible for investigating breaches. Any violation could also cause significant reputational damage to RCSI.

Universities are subject to export controls in the same way as any other organisation, regardless of the reason or motivation for the export. If a university exports a listed item, or exports technical assistance or knowledge relating to a listed item (collectively referred to as ‘controlled products’), it must obtain a licence in advance, regardless of the intended use. While Academic freedom is a fundamental right guaranteed by the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union and the Universities Act 1997, academic freedom does not exempt researchers and Universities from complying with the export control regulations.