Important update: New Research Misconduct Policy effective 1 March 2025

Dear colleagues

The University of Cape Town’s (UCT) revised and Council-approved Policy for Breach of Research Ethics Codes and Allegations of Misconduct in Research informally known as the Research Misconduct Policy, is in the process of being implemented and will officially take effect on 1 March 2025. This updated policy reinforces the university’s commitment to fostering a research environment which enables ethical and responsible research practice.

Why this policy matters

Maintaining the highest ethical standards in research is essential to UCT’s mission of advancing knowledge and innovation. This policy is a comprehensive framework to ensure that any allegations of research misconduct are addressed with fairness, transparency and due diligence. It provides clear, accessible procedures for all staff and students, safeguarding both the integrity of research and the rights of those involved.

How the Office of Research Integrity (ORI) will help you

ORI will be a critical resource in implementing this policy and providing continuous support to UCT researchers. Their goal is to help you navigate the policy effectively and maintain the standards that define our institution.

• Confidential Advice: Faculty Research Integrity Advisors (FRIAs), supported by the ORI, if needed, can provide confidential guidance at any research stage if you have concerns about a potential breach or need clarity on responsible research practices.
• Training and Capacity Building: FRIAs will receive training to support their critical role as outlined in the policy.
• Procedural Support: The ORI will assign a dedicated servicing officer to both the Preliminary Informal Enquiry (PIE) Committee and the Special Investigation Committee (SIC). This officer will ensure that cases of alleged misconduct are handled efficiently, confidentially and impartially, while rigorously adhering to due process.

What the ORI will not do

The ORI will provide administrative and procedural support, they will not make final judgments on research misconduct cases. This is done by the two committees described in the policy, in conjunction with the deputy vice-chancellor if the case involves the SIC.

Key features

• Transparent investigation process: The policy uses a two-stage approach, starting with a PIE and escalating to a SIC if warranted, ensuring thorough examination before formal investigations.
• Protection of research integrity and rights: It safeguards the confidentiality and rights of both complainants and respondents, while addressing conflicts of interest and highlighting the role of FRIAs for local support.
• Tailored faculty guidance: Each faculty will have access to specific guidelines to address unique research challenges, with FRIAs facilitating consistent and responsive policy application.

What you need to do

As part of the rollout of this policy, we encourage you to:

• Familiarise yourself with the UCT Code for Responsible Conduct of Research and the Research Misconduct Policy to ensure your work adheres to these principles.
• Engage with your FRIAs, who will serve as points of contact within your faculty for any queries or concerns about the new policy. Once available, contact details for the FRIAs will be shared accordingly.

Next steps

Committed to ensuring a smooth transition to this new policy the ORI will develop detailed FAQs. Any questions about the implementation process can be submitted to research.misconduct@uct.ac.za. If appropriate they will also be incorporated into the FAQs.

Sincerely

Professor Jeff Murugan
Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Internationalisation

Read previous communications:

• From the UCT Executive
• Campus Announcements