Principles of academic research

Academic integrity

Researchers from Utrecht University are each responsible for maintaining scientific integrity. This means that they allow themselves to be led by the facts and by the principles of honesty, scrupulousness, transparency, independence and responsibility. These principles are also stated in the Netherlands Code of Conduct for Research Integrity.

Collaborating with third parties

Utrecht University is at the heart of society and therefore also works closely with various partners. Many different civil society organisations (including NGOs), government bodies and companies know to find Utrecht University when they are seeking answers to current questions. Collaboration with third parties takes place on the basis of complete independence, also in the case of contract research (university research funded by third parties). This means that our researchers are free to publish their results in academic, peer-reviewed journals even if the results could be disagreeable for the financier.

Collaboration with stakeholders is desirable for many reasons. For example, with our research we answer questions from society. In addition, it is important for the exchange of knowledge, access to data, a reality check of assumptions, and communicating scientific knowledge for policy, industry and society. Informing and participating in the public debate about controversial subjects is also a part of this.

Ancillary activities

Employees of Utrecht University who wish to perform ancillary activities should obtain prior permission for this from their manager. Furthermore, professors are required to publicly reveal their ancillary activities by listing these on their profile page.