The Ombudspersons at FLI

The ombudspersons are available as confidential advisors in cases where there is suspicion of a violation of the principles of good research practice.

Duties

As impartial and qualified mediators, the ombudspersons should advise scientists in matters of good scientific practice. In case of a potential violation of GRP rules or allegations of scientific misconduct, the ombudspersons discuss confidentially the issues with all parties involved and pass them on to the responsible authorities of the institution, if appropriate. The aim is to solve conflicts by mediation whenever possible – yet always in compliance with GRP rules.

Everything which is brought to the attention of the ombudspersons, is dealt with in strict confidentiality. This confidentiality is meant to protect the informant and all involved persons and holds even after a case has been closed. Other persons, institutions or boards are informed only upon agreement in accordance with the client(s) or if the case requires a formal process of clarification according to the procedures set forth in the “FLI Guidelines of Good Research Practice”.

Foundation

The work of the ombudspersons is based on the regulations and recommendations of the FLI, the Leibniz Association and the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft:

• FLI Rules of Good Research Practice (Link)
• Guidelines for Good Scientific Practice in the Leibniz Association [pdf]
• DFG Guidelines for Safeguarding Good Research Practice - Code of Conduct [pdf]

In addition to local ombudspersons, the DFG has installed a German Research Ombudsman in order to advise and mediate between parties in matters related to research integrity. Everybody is free to either contact his/her own institutional ombudsperson or the German Research Ombudsman of DFG.

Other Ombuds Committees

In addition to local ombudspersons, the Leibniz Association has a central Ombuds Committee (Link), which investigates allegations against current and former members of Leibniz Institutes and, if necessary, initiates the installment of an investigation committee. Leibniz-independent, the DFG has installed the Ombuds Committee for Research Integrity in Germany (Link) to advise and mediate between parties in matters related to research integrity. 

Everybody is free to either contact the FLI ombudspersons, the central Leibniz Ombuds Committee or the Ombuds Committee for Research Integrity in Germany.