LSW Fellow Brings Wales’ Voice to European Ethics Committee

Dr Emma Yhnell FLSW will sit on the Research Ethics and Integrity Council (REIC), at ALLEA, the European Federation of Academies of Sciences and Humanities, following her successful competitive nomination for the role by the Learned Society of Wales.

The purpose of the Council, says ALLEA, is to strengthen its own leadership role as the research landscape undergoes rapid change. The Council does this by overseeing and updating ALLEA’s flagship publication, the European Code of Conduct for Research Integrity, which is the reference document for all EU-funded research.

The Council also advises ALLEA on the ‘ethical and integrity challenges posed by new and emerging technologies such as generative artificial intelligence, shifting norms in research assessment, and threats to academic freedom’.

Emma, who is currently a Reader and Associate Dean for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at Cardiff University, said: “It is a real privilege to be appointed to the Council following my nomination by the Learned Society of Wales.

“Throughout my career, I have seen how responsible, inclusive and transparent research practices underpin public trust, inspire learning and teaching, and deliver meaningful impact.

“I am excited to contribute to ALLEA’s work in strengthening ethical research cultures across Europe and beyond.”

The Council will be responsible for, among other things, the responsible conduct of research, ethics education, and the role of ethics committees.”

“We’re delighted to have nominated Emma for the Council,” said Dr Fiona Dakin, Head of Public Policy at the Learned Society of Wales.

“It’s fantastic that Wales will have such a strong voice on this vital forum. Emma’s insights will also be invaluable for us as we continue our efforts towards a robust research culture in Wales and beyond.”