PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: RESEARCH MISCONDUCT-II

In the previous edition of the EJS we presented an article on Research Misconduct - I the definition of research misconduct, spectrum of research misconduct, diagnosis of research misconduct, prevention of research misconduct. In this article we continue the same theme by presenting how to respond and how to conduct an investigation of alleged research misconduct. Each institution should have a declared policy and written procedures dealing with research misconduct which are activated once an allegation of research misconduct is reported. However, it is advisable to apply this code of practice to the rather serious spectrum of research misconduct (see previous edition of EJS) especially those characterized by deception for personal gain such as data fabrication, data falsification and plagiarism. Most investigational approaches use a two-stage approach. An initial screening phase which may be followed by a formal investigative phase if the screening phase indicates to the presence of research misconduct