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As a former PhD researcher, I welcome the European charter and code described in Lord Sainsbury's article ("Be a good neighbour and share your bright ideas", September 9).

The aims are admirable and address key issues for researchers.

However, there is a misperception that science research is what matters, and is what these instruments are all about. Researchers and research in non-science fields are seen as less important.

It was telling that the illustration published alongside the article showed the same bias. The charter and code will apply to all researchers, whatever their field.

This misperception must be demolished, both in the research sector and in society at large. Only once this has been achieved can the tangible results of the charter and code follow.

Tim Brooks University of East London