One of the most common questions researchers ask is whether someone should be acknowledged as an author. Research with integrity includes the fair and accurate recognition of contributions to research. Authorship signals both competence and accountability to the research community.
Navigating the (unwritten) rules of authorship
“While disciplines often have different conventions, authorship at UTS is governed by the UTS Authorship Procedure. This requires a significant intellectual or scholarly contribution to the research and its output, together with agreement to be listed as an author,” explained Christiane Kuehling, the Research Integrity Coordinator in the UTS Research Office.
A significant contribution must include one, and should include a combination of two or more, of the following:
- conception and design
- acquisition of research data involving significant intellectual input
- contribution of knowledge
- analysis or interpretation of data
- drafting and critical revision of the research output.
Who should not be an author?
Christiane said authorship should not be attributed solely because a person provided funding, materials, facilities, routine technical support, or holds a senior position such as supervisor or head of department.
“Similarly, authorship should not be used to recognise status or reputation alone,” she added.
Can AI be an author?
Researchers are ultimately responsible for the quality and accuracy of research outputs.
“Do not submit GenAI content without proper verification and disclosure,” warned Christiane, adding that researchers are advised to consider publisher and journal requirements regarding the use of GenAI.
Discuss authorship early and often
Many authorship disputes arise from different expectations.
“Good practice is to discuss authorship at the beginning of a project and revisit the discussion as contributions evolve,” Christiane said.
“If a disagreement arises, communicate it. Conflict is often the result of misunderstanding or contrasting expectations rather than malicious intent.”
Good practice is to discuss authorship at the beginning of a project and revisit the discussion as contributions evolve.
For guidance on authorship questions and other research integrity concerns, researchers can also seek confidential, independent advice from a Research Integrity Advisor. However, they do not investigate complaints or determine outcomes.
“Authorship disputes for work that has not yet been published can often be resolved locally with appropriate advice and support.”
What's next?
- Review the UTS Authorship Procedure.
- Use the Statement of Authorship template to document contributions.
- Review the Use of AI in Research Guidelines | University of Technology Sydney
- Contact a Research Integrity Advisor for confidential advice.
- Contact the Research Integrity and Governance Unit if you believe a potential breach may have occurred by email research.integrity@uts.edu.au.