Further links on the subject of investigation procedures in suspected cases of research misconduct

Related guidelines:

HEIs and non-HEI research institutions establish procedures to handle allegations of research misconduct. They define policies and regulations on the basis of a sufficient legal foundation. The regulations define the circumstances that constitute misconduct, procedural rules and the measures to take should an allegation be upheld. Regulations are applied in addition to relevant higher-level laws.

Not every breach of good research practice constitutes misconduct. Only deliberate or grossly negligent infringements defined in a set of regulations are considered scientific misconduct. Particular examples of mis- conduct include fabrication of data, falsification of data and plagiarism. The regulations enacted by HEIs and non-HEI research institutions define responsibility for each step of a procedure, the consideration of evidence, substitutes for ombudspersons and members of investigation committees, conflicts of interest and the procedural principles of the rule of law. The re- spondent and the complainant are each given the opportunity to be heard at each stage of the process. Until such time as it is demonstrated that misconduct has occurred, information relating to the individuals involved in the process and the findings of the investigation is treated in confidence. HEIs and non-HEI research institutions ensure that the entire process is conducted as promptly as possible and implement the steps necessary to complete each stage of the procedure within an appropriate time frame. The regulations stipulate various measures to be applied according to the seriousness of the scientific misconduct ascertained. If, after it has been established that misconduct has occurred, the revocation of an academic degree is being considered, the responsible bodies are included in deliberations. Once inquiries are complete, the result is announced to affected research organisations and, if relevant, third parties with a justified interest in the decision.

Disclaimer: The selection of links provided here does not claim to be exhaustive. They are examples. The editors welcome suggestions for the inclusion of further examples.

DFG Rules of Procedure for Dealing with Scientific Misconduct (VerfOwF)

Rules of Procedure for Dealing with Scientific Misconduct(externer Link)

Procedural Guide to Good Research Practice

Guide (available in German only)(externer Link)

ENRIO Handbook on Whistleblower Protection in Research

The European Network of Research Integrity Officers (ENRIO) has published a handbook(externer Link) with recommendations on how to protect whistleblowers in research. The handbook is aimed at research institutions wishing to set up a whistleblowing system, at researchers considering reporting a suspicion of scientific misconduct, and at the interested public.

Further links on the subject of investigation procedures in suspected cases of research misconduct

Procedures in cases of alleged research misconduct

DFG Rules of Procedure for Dealing with Scientific Misconduct (VerfOwF)

Procedural Guide to Good Research Practice

ENRIO Handbook on Whistleblower Protection in Research

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Further links on the subject of investigation procedures in suspected cases of research misconduct

DFG Rules of Procedure for Dealing with Scientific Misconduct (VerfOwF)

Procedural Guide to Good Research Practice

ENRIO Handbook on Whistleblower Protection in Research

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