Vale Paul Taylor: world leader in research integrity

Dr Paul Taylor, who passed away on 20 November, was recognised as a world-leading expert in research integrity.

His thoughtful and determined leadership of various aspects of the responsible conduct of research has been influential at RMIT, The University of Melbourne, throughout Australia, and overseas.

His opinion on research integrity topics was sought by many, including the academic journal Nature.

He worked with researchers, institutions, publishers, and government agencies both in Australia and overseas to guide how they conduct and support trustworthy research, and how they should best work with each other to build a culture of research integrity.

Paul helped shape and co-wrote the recently published Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research, a document used across Australia to guide trustworthy, honest and ethical research.

As Co-Chair of the World Conference on Research Integrity to be held in Hong Kong in 2019, and as a leading figure within the Asia Pacific Research Integrity Network, Paul was setting the agenda for what the field of research integrity will focus on now and into the future.

Paul was also heavily involved in the APEC Guiding Principles for Research Integrity project.

Through his work, Paul established many friendships and a legacy that will help improve global research.

Paul and his family have had a long-running and deep connection with RMIT.

His grandfather led the Foundry School in the 50s and 60s and his father worked for 38 years as a print manager after completing an apprenticeship at RMIT.

Paul was an inspiring leader who was generous with his time and wisdom and a dear friend to many.

The RMIT community extends our deepest condolences to Paul’s family. He will be greatly missed.

/RMIT University News Release. View in full here.