Research culture
Research culture is about creating an environment that enables excellent research and where everyone involved in research can thrive.
Research culture is about how research is done, not just what research is done. It encompasses the values, behaviours, expectations and practices that shape how research is designed, conducted, supported and shared.
At Oxford, we recognise that there is no single research culture. Research is carried out across a wide range of disciplines, each with its own ways of working, while sharing common principles of rigour, openness, integrity, collaboration and respect. Together, these principles help create an environment where people can thrive and where excellent research can flourish.
A positive research culture values the many different contributions that make research possible—from researchers and technicians to professional services staff, research leaders and partners. By recognising diverse skills and perspectives, we strengthen both our research and the communities that make it possible.
“The reputation and impact of our research depends on creative people working together, united by a commitment to rigour and openness, and by an enthusiasm to support each other’s future success. Our people make our environment.”
Research culture matters at Oxford
Oxford's researchers tackle some of the world’s most complex challenges. Delivering outstanding research depends not only on individual excellence but also on the environment in which people work.
Oxford’s research culture is united around three interconnected priorities:
- Careers: assessing research fairly and inclusively, in an equitable working environment, and supporting the community in their career aspirations.
- Research practice: enabling researchers to conduct rigorous, reliable, and transparent research and innovation.
- Valuing contributions: recognising the broad range of talents, skills, outputs and contributions needed for research and innovation to flourish.
Through these priorities, what’s good for research will be aligned with what’s good for research careers by creating an environment in which rigorous practices and diversity – of views, skills, and contributions – are valued and count towards career progression.
Oxford’s research culture programme is led by Professor Patrick Grant, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Research), in partnership with Academic Leads and research leadership across the University’s divisions, departments and faculties.
The programme is overseen by the Research and Innovation Committee and delivered through collaboration between academic and professional services colleagues across the University.
Our progress and impact
Oxford's approach combines institution-wide leadership with locally driven initiatives that reflect the needs of different disciplines, departments and research communities.
Get involved
To learn more about research culture at Oxford or opportunities to get involved, contact one of the University's research culture champions or teams, including:
Pages in this section
For further information
If you are a member of staff, you can find additional content on the Research Culture OxIntranet page. Please note you will need Single Sign On (SSO) credentials to access OxIntranet.
For further information about this page or research culture at Oxford, please email Mary Muers (Lead, Researcher Hub and Research Environment Programmes) at [email protected], Research Practice at [email protected] or the Researcher Hub at [email protected].