In this episode, our host Emily Goodall speaks with James Parry, an independent consultant specialising in research integrity and research culture, and former Chief Executive of the UK Research Integrity Office. With years of experience supporting organisations and the research community, James shares insights on how research misconduct extends far beyond instances of fabrication or plagiarism — and how everyday pressures, small compromises, and unchallenged bad behaviour can erode trust, wellbeing, and research quality.

Integrity in research isn’t just about following rules — it’s about building a culture where doing the right thing is supported, encouraged, and possible.

Episode highlights include:

1️⃣ How systemic pressures like publish-or-perish cultures, job precarity, and time strain make good practice harder to maintain.

2️⃣ Why seeking advice and support early is essential: “You don't have to go full Scooby-Doo!” It’s not your job to investigate or challenge poor practice on your own.

3️⃣ The importance of a “setbacks, not failures” mindset to reduce pressure, discourage corner-cutting, and support wellbeing.

4️⃣ Creating environments where people feel safe to raise concerns and leaders role in supporting good practice.

5️⃣ How unchallenged misconduct and poor culture can damage relationships, trust, and collaboration.

Links and resources from this episode:

1. How to contact James: https://parryconsulting.org/contact-me/
2. James Parry LinkedIN profile and James Parry Consulting website.
3. The Concordat to Support Research Integrity (2025).
4. UK Committee on Research Integrity/ Research Consulting, Review of annual statements on research integrity (2025).
5. UK Committee on Research Integrity, Indicators of Research Integrity (2024).
6. All European Academies (ALLEA), European Code of Conduct for Research Integrity (2023).
7. World Conference on Research Integrity (WCRI), Singapore Statement on Research Integrity (2010).

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All of our episodes can be accessed via the following playlists:

1. Research Impact with Ged Hall (follow Ged on Bluesky and LinkedIn)
2. Research Impact Heroes with Ged Hall
3. Open Research with Nick Sheppard (follow Nick on Bluesky and LinkedIn)
4. Research Careers with Ruth Winden (follow Ruth on Bluesky and LinkedIn)
5. Research talent management
6. Meet the Research Culturositists with Emma Spary (follow Emma on Bluesky and LinkedIn)
7. Research co-production
8. Research evaluation
9. Research leadership
10. Research professionals
11. Academic failure with Taryn Bell (follow Taryn on Bluesky and LinkedIn)

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