Research Integrity

Research integrity refers to the appropriate conduct of researchers and research teams, reflected through their behaviours and practices throughout the entire research cycle.

A breach of research integrity refers to behaviours in the research process that do not meet established standards including, for example, plagiarism, the falsification or fabrication of data, the misuse of research funds, or the mismanagement of a conflict of interest. 

The standards of research integrity are set out in TMU’s Policy on SRC Integrity (Senate Policy 118) in conjunction with the Tri-Agency Framework: Responsible Conduct of Research (2021) (external link) .

Research integrity is distinct from the university’s Research Ethics Board, which primarily ensures individuals are conducting research with human participants responsibly and in line with institutional and federal policies and guidelines (see Senate Policy 51). For reference, academic integrity or misconduct relates to behaviours that may undermine the institution’s ability to evaluate a student’s course-based achievements fairly (see Senate Policy 60).

At Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), “SRC” refers to the full scope of Scholarly, Research, and Creative (SRC) activities. However, for consistency with the Tri-Agency Framework: Responsible Conduct of Research and the external guidelines and resources referenced in these modules, we will use the term “research” unless directly referencing TMU’s Senate Policy 118: SRC Integrity.

Research integrity is the standard expected of anyone who conducts or supports research activities throughout the life cycle of a project.

Core Values and Principles

As set out in TMU’s Senate Policy 118, it is expected that all members of the university (including faculty, staff and students) who are conducting research, as well as those who are not members of the university but who are conducting research on university premises or using university resources, will observe the highest standards of integrity in the conduct of their research activities.

The Office of the Vice-President, Research and Innovation (OVPRI) is responsible for implementing Senate Policy 118, including any allegations of a breach of the policy.

Discover applications of research integrity values and principles through Research Integrity eLearning.