About Us

The Research Ethics Association

The Research Ethics Association (REA) is a registered charity dedicated to advancing education and promoting best practices in research ethics across diverse fields, disciplines, and sectors. Our work encompasses academia, education, charitable and non-profit organisations, industry, government, and the wider public.

Founded in 2019 by a committed group of volunteer academics from the South West and Wales, REA was born out of a recognised need for a cohesive, interdisciplinary approach to ethical research practice, one that moves beyond isolated institutional or industry standards. Our successful REC2021 online conference demonstrated global enthusiasm for cross-disciplinary dialogue in research ethics, drawing over 500 participants from 53 countries and reinforcing the need for an organisation committed to ongoing education and advocacy.

Our charitable objective is clear: to advance education for public benefit by enhancing understanding and practice of research ethics across all research sectors. To fulfil this mission, REA provides accessible training programmes, interactive workshops, international conferences, educational publications, and proactive outreach initiatives. Each of these activities aims to raise awareness, deepen understanding, and improve the practical application of ethical research standards.

Guided by a dedicated team of trustees and volunteers from across the UK, including academics, doctoral researchers, industry professionals, and representatives from charitable organisations, we actively encourage dialogue, critical thinking, and collaboration. By promoting inclusive and diverse conversations, we aim to dismantle barriers and inspire innovation in ethical research practice.

We invite researchers, practitioners, organisations, and the public to join us in building a responsible, engaged, and ethically aware research community. Together, we can ensure that research across all disciplines positively impacts society, driven by integrity, accountability, and respect.

Our Charitable Aim

The object of the CIO is to promote, advocate for, and facilitate ethical research practices and considerations across diverse disciplines and
perspectives. As an independent collaborative initiative, the REA aims to provide a platform for meaningful education, dialogue, awareness, and
positive engagement with research ethics within the education, academic, and research community, including charities, not-for-profit and non-governmental organisations. Through activism, advocacy, and interdisciplinary exchange, the REA seeks to transcend conventional
institutional and procedural norms, promoting a multidisciplinary approach to ethical research practices.

Our Vision

The Research Ethics Association envisions a global paradigm shift where individuals and institutions across academia, industry, and beyond are deeply engaged in critical thinking and dialogue regarding research ethics, transcending conventional institutional norms and positively adopting a culture of ethical inquiry and practice that permeates diverse sectors and disciplines worldwide

Our Mission

To promote and cultivate a global culture of ethical research practices that transcends conventional institutional norms, adopting interdisciplinary dialogue and proactive engagement across academia, industry, and diverse sectors. Through advocacy, education, and collaboration, we aim to empower individuals and institutions to uphold the highest ethical standards in research, thereby contributing to positive societal impact across nations and disciplines.

Our Values

Ethical Integrity: We uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct in all aspects of research, guided by principles of integrity, honesty, and transparency.
Collaboration: We adopt collaboration and interdisciplinary exchange to advance ethical research practices, recognising the value of diverse perspectives and expertise.
Advocacy: We advocate for the importance of research ethics and its integration into academic, industrial, and societal frameworks, promoting awareness and proactive engagement.
Diversity and Inclusivity: We embrace diversity and promote inclusivity within the research community, valuing the contributions of individuals from varied backgrounds and perspectives.
Innovation: We encourage innovative approaches to addressing ethical challenges in research, promoting continuous improvement and adaptation to evolving ethical landscapes.
Education: We are committed to providing educational resources and opportunities for individuals, organisations and institutions to enhance their understanding and implementation of research ethics.
Impact: We strive to make a positive impact on the global academic and research community by promoting ethical research practices that contribute to meaningful societal outcomes across nations and disciplines.