New BHF policies on bullying, harassment and research misconduct

At the British Heart Foundation, we’ve been at the forefront of research into heart and circulatory diseases for nearly 60 years. We support innovative and cutting-edge research by funding of some of the greatest minds in science. And with that funding comes the expectation that our funded researchers foster a constructive and positive research culture and environment. 

Our research is entirely funded by the generous public and we believe that safeguarding the welfare of our funded researchers also safeguards the funds entrusted to us.

As a research funder, we believe that a research environment should be free from bullying and harassment and that all research should be approached with the utmost integrity. By publishing clear policies on bullying and harassment, and on research misconduct and fraud, we hope to underscore their importance in research excellence and be transparent in our approaches. 

Clarity and transparency

While the policies are new, the behaviour outlined in them will feel familiar to the research community - we know the vast majority of scientists carry out their research with integrity and professional conduct. These new policies just outline our approach if behaviour falls below what we expect.

We know how hard researchers work to achieve funding and, in the extreme case that we had to impose funding sanctions on one researcher or institution, we would work to minimise the impact on other researchers and the life-saving science carried out by our funded teams.

We don’t see these additional policies as something to sit in the Grant Conditions and be forgotten. We are committed to creating environments where the very best heart and circulatory research can be supported on all fronts.

Ensuring dignity and integrity 

Researchers have the right to expect the same level of respect and support as in any workplace, regardless of the pressures of their work. The responsibilities of institutes are therefore the same as any other organisation, with a duty to foster a culture of inclusivity and respect. Every member of staff should feel equally valued and able to work without fear or being bullied or harassed, with confidence that all work is being carried out to the highest standards. 

Ultimately by ensuring that research is carried out in a safe, supportive, and constructive environment, we protect the integrity of our life-saving science.

Find out what this means for you if you are funded by the BHF, or host our funded researchers at your institution.