Information and Contacts

Complainants and Respondents

"The responsible bodies at HEIs and non-HEI research institutions (normally ombudspersons and investigating committees) examining allegations of misconduct take appropriate measures to protect both the complainant and the respondent. The investigation of allegations of research misconduct must be carried out in strict confidentiality and adhere to the presumption of innocence. The information disclosed by the complainant must be provided in good faith. Knowingly false or malicious allegations may themselves constitute misconduct. The disclosure should not disadvantage the research or professional career prospects of either the complainant or the respondent."

Source: Guideline 18, Code of Conduct "Guidelines for Safeguarding Good Research Practice"

Procedures in Cases of Alleged Research Misconduct

"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."

Source: Guideline 4, Code of Conduct "Guidelines for Safeguarding Good Research Practice"

Commission Members for Academic Misconduct Clarification (in German only)