Good Research Practice

Good research practice encompasses various levels and areas of responsibility. In its Code of Good Research Practice, the University of Mannheim sets out the following general principles:

• Individual sense of responsibility
  This means, for example: using replicable methods, carefully documenting results, critically questioning your own research results, and being respectful and honest about partners’ contributions.
• Role model function of schools, centers, institutions and research groups
  This means, for example: educating students and early-stage researchers about good research practice, providing guidance, and promoting an open and reflective approach to academic work.
• Institutional responsibility of the university
  This means, for example: creating conditions that support good research practice and anchoring the principle of “quality over quantity.”

The Code of Good Research Practice (see below) goes well beyond these general principles, addressing various other topics, such as research design, publications, and academic discourse, in detail.

Academic misconduct means, for example, doing the following in an academic context:

• intentionally or recklessly providing false information (e.g., by fabricating or falsifying data)
• deliberately withholding relevant information or providing incomplete information (e.g., by using manipulated images)
• infringing the intellectual property rights of others (e.g., through idea theft)
• obstructing the research activities of others (e.g., by sabotaging experiment set-ups)

Shared responsibility may result from knowingly tolerating academic misconduct of others.

For details, see the Code of Good Research Practice at the University of Mannheim and the Statutes of the University of Mannheim on Procedures for Handling Academic Misconduct. The Senate of the University of Mannheim published these documents based on recommendations of the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the German Rectors' Conference (HRK) in 2014. 

Ombudsperson
The ombudsperson at the University of Mannheim and their deputy are the first points of contact in cases of suspected academic misconduct. They provide confidential advice and help you assess the situation.
Contact the ombudsperson

Ombudspersons for doctorate-related matters
There are special ombudspersons responsible for doctorate-related conflicts or cases of suspected academic misconduct, who may be contacted by both doctoral students and supervisors. In addition, there are various other points of contact individuals in need of support can reach out to, even if they are in a distressing situation in connection with doctoral studies. These include the advisor on doctoral studies, the Psychosocial Counseling Service, and the Staff Council.
Doctoral studies: advising in cases of conflict

DFG liaison officers
Higher education institutions that are members of the German Research Foundation (DFG) appoint liaison officers to serve as independent points of contact. These officers assist, in particular, with questions regarding grant applications and uncertainties during ongoing procedures. You can find the person responsible at the University of Mannheim as well as a list of all DFG liaison officers on the DFG website.
Go to list of DFG liaison officers

Standing Committee for the Investigation of Academic Misconduct Allegations
This senate committee is responsible for investigating allegations of academic misconduct. It investigates the information received and conducts corresponding procedures. The committee consists of representatives from various status groups at the university, including teachers, students, doctoral students, and academic staff members.
Learn more about the committee