Scientific Integrity Policy
Scientific Integrity Policy
The Institute is serious about the integrity of its scientific research and maintains a Scientific Integrity Policy that is also part of the Institute’s Code of Ethics and Standards. The section of the Code of Ethics and Standards containing the Scientific Integrity Policy is reproduced below.
General Policy
Scientists employed by the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research shall execute their work in accordance with scientific standards of objectivity, accountability and professionalism.
Research integrity is fundamental to the ethical conduct of the scientific process and to the credibility and reputation of the Institute. Research findings are to be reported accurately, results are not to be fabricated or falsified and plagiarism in written documents is unacceptable. Timely, accurate, complete, authentic and reliable records of research data are to be maintained in line with the Institute’s Maintenance of Laboratory Notebooks and Records Policy.
Research misconduct is defined as fabrication or plagiarism of performed or proposed research or reports, falsification of data or credentials, or misuse of research resources and is not tolerated. Any case of suspected or alleged research misconduct or misuse of research funds shall be investigated thoroughly and where applicable, disciplinary measures, including possible termination of employment, shall be applied. Research misconduct in the context of this Policy does not include authorship or collaboration disputes.
Responsibility and Action
All individuals affiliated with the Institute have an ethical responsibility to act if research misconduct is suspected or has occurred. Should research misconduct occur or be suspected, the appropriate action to be taken, anonymously if desired, may include:
- Pursuing discussion with and/or seeking perspective from a group leader, the Branch Director, the Head of Academic Affairs, or the Scientific Director,
- Notifying the Branch Director of the alleged research misconduct at the Branch level or,
- Notifying the Head of Academic Affairs or the Scientific Director of the Institute of the alleged research misconduct at the Institute level.
Any questions regarding Scientific Research Integrity should be directed to the Scientific Director or the Head of Academic Affairs.
Revised and Board approved 24 April 2012
