The MRC Centre for Research Policy works with the research community to develop and implement MRC research policy that encourages good research practice, by promoting ethical and responsible research conduct. Good research practice facilitates biomedical research which benefits all in society and promotes public trust.
The Centre for Research Policy is replacing the former MRC Regulatory Support Centre, to align with our strategic priorities for research policy. You can still access the MRC regulatory support resources.
What we do
We engage with the research community, and increasingly with interested members of the public, to collectively shape policy and identify examples of good practice. We also promote and share this good practice via our advice, guidance and learning resources.
Data sharing policy
We support researchers to facilitate data sharing, implementing our data sharing and management policy. We are:
- raising the importance of data management plans in funding assessment
- reviewing data sharing among grant holders
- highlighting recognition and professionalisation of data managers
- harmonising approaches with other funders
We’ve worked across UKRI to help develop UKRI’s research data policy. This policy is out for consultation until 9 July 2025 and will eventually replace MRC’s data sharing policy.
Provide your feedback on the UKRI research data policy (UKRI Engagement Hub)
Data e-learning
We are facilitating access to health data by simplifying our ‘Confidentiality and data protection in health research’ e-learning. This is currently out for user testing and will replace our ‘Research, GDPR and confidentiality’ e-learning.
Embedding diversity in research design
We are developing learning materials to help you understand and embed diversity in research design.
Research transparency
We facilitate transparency in clinical trials and other population studies, by checking that relevant grant holders register their trials and disseminate findings.
Public partnerships
We are implementing our action plan for public partnerships. We are working with the MRC Director of public partnerships to further develop public partnerships within the research community.
Research misuse
We’re currently updating the joint MRC, BBSRC and Wellcome statement on managing risks of research misuse, following workshops we ran in 2023 and 2024.
Artificial intelligence
We have published interim guidance for biomedical artificial intelligence (AI) and software developers.
New research technologies
We work with partners on the ethics and governance of new research technologies, including:
- stem cell-based embryo models
- neural organoids
- engineering biology
- neurotechnology
Information governance
We co-chair and provide the secretariat for the Health Research Information Governance Working Group.
How we use your data
You can find out how the MRC Centre for Research Policy uses the ‘personal data’ we hold, in our privacy notices.
Ask a question about the MRC Centre for Research Policy
Contact us or sign up for email updates at: researchpolicy@mrc.ukri.org
Last updated: 19 May 2025