University for the Creative Arts - Research Ethics

Research Ethics at UCA

The University for the Creative Arts is committed to supporting good practice in research and scholarly activity. Conducting research in accordance with ethical principles is considered to be of fundamental importance.

We provide expert advice for students and staff, for more information go to myUCA Research Ethics Page

Do I require Ethical Approval?

Find out if your project requires UCA ethical approval

Applying for Ethical Approval

There are two application procedures available to staff and students who are dependent on potential risks to participants.

To establish the likely risk level of your research project, please follow the relevant guidance at MyUCA Research Ethics

Training and Guidance

Guidance on best practice in research and research ethics follow this link

How does GDPR affect Research ethics

GDPR demands that data processing is lawful, fair and transparent. Organisations that process personal data, or control its processing, are accountable for this, yet we all have a role to play.

Guidance on how to ensure that your project is GDPR compliant

Ethical Approval Calendar

Research undertaken by UCA staff and students will sometimes require ethical review through the Research Committee

The committee establishes, monitors and reviews the procedures for the examination of proposals for research which involves human participants and materials derived from human participants.

External research ethics resources

Research Councils' websites

Guidance on good practice on ethics from UK Research Councils.

Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC): Safeguarding Good Scientific Practice
Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC): Good Practice in Science and Engineering Research
Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC): Framework for Research Ethics
Medical Research Council: Good Research Practice: Principles and Guidelines
Natural Environment Research Council (NERC): Ethics Policy
Research Councils UK (RCUK): Policy and Guidelines on Governance of Good Research Conduct

Public or professional bodies' websites

Ethics resources, including codes of conduct from public or professional bodies.

British Educational Research Association (BERA): Ethical Guidelines for Educational Research
British Psychological Society: Code of Ethics and Conduct
British Sociological Association: Statement of Ethical Practice
European Code of Conduct for Research Integrity
General Pharmaceutical Council: Standards of Conduct, Ethics and Performance
Health Professions Council: Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics
Home Office guidance on research and testing using animals
Royal Academy of Engineering: Engineering Ethics
Singapore Statement on Research Integrity
Understanding Animal Research: Concordat on Openness on Animal Research
UK Data Archive: Ethical Resources
UK Research Integrity Office (UKRIO): Code of Practice for Research
Universities UK and Cancer Research UK: Joint Protocol on Tobacco Funding
Universities UK: Concordat on Research Integrity