4.2.3 Responsible conduct of research: Difference between revisions

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{{Preamble
| aliases =
* responsible conduct of research
* research misconduct
* speak up mechanism
* ombudsperson
* integrity concern
* whistleblowing
| answers =
* What should a research unit do about suspected misconduct?
* How do I report a research integrity concern?
* What procedure is required for handling misconduct allegations?
* Which core requirement covers research misconduct?
}}
== ​​​​​​​​​​​A. Background & Definitions​ ==
== ​​​​​​​​​​​A. Background & Definitions​ ==
This item refers to one of the [[Core Requirements]]  (Core Requirement 5 - "The research unit must have a procedure to act upon concerns of potential misconduct") and is, therefore, considered as essential.
This item refers to one of the [[Core Requirements]]  (Core Requirement 5 - "The research unit must have a procedure to act upon concerns of potential misconduct") and is, therefore, considered as essential.
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Training and learning resources:
Training and learning resources:
* [https://www.earma.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/EARMA-ERION-Training-Report-2020_v20.10.pdf EARMA Guidance for implementation of ethics and integrity training]
* [https://www.eur.nl/en/about-eur/policy-and-regulations/integrity/research-integrity/dilemma-game Erasmus University dilemma game]
* [https://www.eur.nl/en/about-eur/policy-and-regulations/integrity/research-integrity/dilemma-game Erasmus University dilemma game]
* [https://ukrio.org/publications/case-study-packs/ UKRIO case studies]
* [https://ukrio.org/publications/case-study-packs/ UKRIO case studies]
* [https://ori.hhs.gov/research-clinic US ORI The research clinic]
* [https://ori.hhs.gov/research-clinic US ORI The research clinic]


Examples and guidance on building institutional policies:
* [https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/415175/bis-15-200-whistleblowing-guidance-for-employers-and-code-of-practice.pdf Whistleblowing: Guidance for employers and code of practice]


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Latest revision as of 08:01, 6 October 2026


Also known as
  • responsible conduct of research
  • research misconduct
  • speak up mechanism
  • ombudsperson
  • integrity concern
  • whistleblowing
Questions this page answers
  • What should a research unit do about suspected misconduct?
  • How do I report a research integrity concern?
  • What procedure is required for handling misconduct allegations?
  • Which core requirement covers research misconduct?


​​​​​​​​​​​A. Background & Definitions​

This item refers to one of the Core Requirements (Core Requirement 5 - "The research unit must have a procedure to act upon concerns of potential misconduct") and is, therefore, considered as essential.

Please see Toolbox item 1.4.1.1 Research integrity for background and definitions.


​B. Guidance & Expectations

The research unit (or the research organization to which the research unit belongs to) must have a uniform and robust procedure in place to deal with potential research misconduct:

  • A central and known to all researchers "speak up" mechanism for research misconduct concerns must be in place.
    • This could be an ombudsperson or research integrity officer or an anonymous mailbox or a confidential electronic "hotline" from where concerns are triaged to a dedicated person.​​
    • This could be a person of trust identified in the neighboring research unit or organization and who would be in a position to deal with violations and allegations of misconduct in agreement with the national or institutional guidelines. Please see also the FAQ​ section.
  • In general, allegations of misconduct are handled by a standing or ad hoc investigation committee taking into account the required expertise and potential conflict of interest.
    • The ENRIO handbook on Recommentations for the Investigation of Research Misconduct is a good resource for practical recommendations.​

It is advised that the procedure, including the speak-up (anonymous reporting, whistleblower policy) and the investigation mechanism, is described and documented in a single file in the Dossier and the research unit informed about it via Email or in group meetings.​

​ PLEASE DO NOT FORGET​

  • Research misconduct is a sensitive topic and has to be handled with maximal care, fairness, and integrity
  • To provide training on research integrity and document it
  • To make sure that every member of the research unit knows how to report potential misconduct


C. Resources

Essential reading:

Training and learning resources:

Examples and guidance on building institutional policies:


back to Toolbox

Next item: 4.2.4 Key performance indicators​