Ethics and Research Integrity

JCU recognises the significant role played by animals in the progression of human knowledge.

The use of animals in research or teaching is permitted only when justified, and when no suitable alternatives exist. All such activities must comply with relevant legislation, guidelines, and University policy, and must receive prior approval from the University’s Animal Ethics Committee (AEC). Approval is granted only when the potential benefits of the work are assessed to outweigh any impacts on the animals involved.

JCU is committed to the ethical, humane, and responsible use of animals, and upholds the internationally recognised principles of the 3Rs – Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement. Respect for animal welfare is central to our policies, procedures, and research culture.

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James Cook University is committed to the ethical and responsible conduct of research involving people, their data, or biological materials.

All human research must be reviewed and approved by the JCU Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) in accordance with the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research (2025).

The Research Ethics and Compliance team provides support and guidance to ensure that research upholds the highest standards of integrity, respect, and participant welfare.

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James Cook University is committed to the ethical, respectful, and inclusive conduct of research with and involving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Research must be conducted in partnership, with genuine consultation and shared decision-making at every stage. It should be culturally safe, locally relevant, and deliver meaningful benefits to Indigenous individuals, communities, and organisations.

Researchers are expected to uphold principles of Indigenous self-determination, data sovereignty, and knowledge authority. Building trust, accountability, and long-term relationships is essential.

Researchers are strongly encouraged to contact the Research Ethics and Compliance team early in the planning process for guidance on best practice and appropriate engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

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A clinical trial is a form of human research designed to find out the effects of an intervention, treatment or diagnostic procedure. It can involve testing a drug, a surgical, therapeutic or preventive procedure or a diagnostic device.

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The James Cook University Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research Policy (Research Code) outlines the expectations upon JCU and its researchers to foster and maintain a research environment of intellectual honesty, integrity and scholarly and scientific rigour.

The Policy was adopted from the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research (National Code) and the Principles of this Policy and the National Code provide core behaviours of an honest, ethical and conscientious research culture.

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Research Integrity Advisors (RIAs) are persons appointed by the University to promote the JCU Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research (Research Code) and provide advice to those with concerns or complaints about potential breaches of the Research Code.

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