Legal requirements for researchers
Vitae Researcher Development Framework 2010 C1.1, C1.3 and C1.4
Vitae RDF 2025 3.7
Legal requirements for researchers
Professional conduct in areas such as health and safety, legal requirements, and intellectual property rights (IPR) is essential for maintaining the integrity and trustworthiness of research.
As a researcher, you are expected to meet the requirements and ethical standards set by professional bodies, funders, policymakers, peers, and the public. This ensures that your work—and that of any researchers under your supervision—adheres to the highest standards.
Failing to meet these standards can result in severe consequences, including criminal proceedings or reputational damage.
Researchers must be aware of key legislation that impacts their work, such as:
- Data Protection Act
- Freedom of Information Act
- Equality Act 2010 (or Northern Irish equivalent)
Understanding these laws ensures compliance and ethical research practices.
Make sure you
Learn about key legislation affecting your research, such as the Data Protection Act and the Equality Act
Consult your institution’s research office to ensure compliance
Support colleagues or supervisees by advising them on their legal responsibilities
Health and safety
Health and safety ensures a safe research environment for yourself and others.
The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSWA) is the primary legislation for occupational health and safety in Great Britain. Similar provisions exist in other countries. The act outlines the responsibilities for securing workplace health, safety, and welfare, and is enforced by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) alongside local authorities.
Make sure you
Familiarise yourself with your institution’s health and safety policies
Attend relevant training provided by your organisation
Make health and safety an integral part of your daily research activities
Take responsibility for your own work environment and advise colleagues
Report inadequate precautions to your institution
Intellectual property rights and copyright
Intellectual Property (IP) protects the expression of ideas, such as inventions, brands, designs, or written works. IP can be owned, bought, or sold.
Key protections include:
- Patents: Protect processes and mechanisms
- Trade marks: Protect logos distinguishing goods or services
- Design rights: Protect the appearance of three-dimensional objects
- Copyright: Protects material once it is recorded or written
Make sure you
Gain a thorough understanding of IP, copyright, and licensing issues
Engage with your institution’s knowledge exchange or legal teams for guidance
Manage the deposit of research outputs and consider promoting open access using Creative Commons licences where appropriate
Ensure contracts and agreements include provisions for IP ownership and usage
Avoid disclosing research findings prematurely, as this could compromise commercial property rights
Check funders’ IPR requirements to ensure compliance
Support others by helping them explore opportunities for IP commercialisation
Key takeaways:
By understanding and implementing these professional standards, you ensure that your research is conducted responsibly, ethically, and with the maximum potential impact.