Aims

The aim of this project is to improve the use of applied meta-research evidence in institutional decision-making affecting research culture, rigour and transparency. We will do this by identifying, documenting, and developing consensus support for good practice.

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What is meta-research?

Currently the UKRN working definition of meta-research, also known as research on research, is the study of research methods and practices with the aim of evaluating and improving research itself.

What do we mean by research culture?

The Royal Society defines research culture as ‘the behaviors, values, expectations, attitudes and norms of our research communities’.

Objectives

Review the exisiting literature on institutional decision-making relevant to research culture.

Summarise the main strands of meta-research evidence relating to research culture.

Interview decision makers and influencers to identify:

  • The kinds and characteristics of decision making that affects research culture
  • How meta-research evidence features in decision making

Interview meta-researchers to identify:

  • The characteristics of meta-research that does or could inform decision making
  • How meta-research features in institutional decision making

Bringing together the knowledge, expertise and lessons leant from the four-pronged approach, the project aims to develop a range of materials for use by researchers, decision-makers and meta-researchers. The exact nature of the materials will be influenced by the research outcomes but will include:

  • Discussion paper
  • Guidance document
  • Examples of good practice
  • Detailed plan for future work

Get Involved

Are you a meta-researcher or do you use meta-research? We would like to talk to you about your research and your experiences conducting or using meta-research. We’re interested to talk to researchers at all stages of their careers. Introduce yourself to the study team to get involved.

Project Updates

UKRN Launches STAR and METEOR Projects

UKRN Launches STAR and METEOR Projects

The UK Reproducibility Network is pleased to announce the launch of two new projects, working towards our vision of the UK research system being outstanding in conducting and promoting rigorous and transparent research.  STAR – Sustainable & TrAnsparent Research...

Funders

This project has been funded by a consortium of UKRN institutions led by University of Bristol who see this issue as a sufficient priority for them to finance the project by pooling their ‘Enhancing Research Culture’ funds from Research England. The contributing institutions are:

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