The Ombudspersons at FLI

Prof. Christoph Englert and Dr. Susann Groth are the current ombudspersons at FLI. Their mandate is to advise and councel scientists and scholars in matters of good scientific practice and its potential impairment through scientific dishonesty.

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

As impartial and qualified mediator, the ombudsperson should advise scientists in matters of good scientific practice. In case of a potential violation of GRP rules or allegations of scientific misconduct, the ombudsperson discusses 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 GSP rules.

Everything, which is brought to the attention of the ombudsperson, 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 at hand requires a formal process of clarification according to the procedures set forth in the “Rules of Good Scientific Practice at FLI”.

The work of the ombudsman is based upon the regulations and recommendations of the FLI, the Leibniz Association and the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, respectively:

• FLI Rules of Good Scientific Practice at FLI [pdf]
• 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.

The Leibniz Association has a Central Ombudsperson, who investigates allegations against current and former members of Leibniz Institutes and, if necessary, initiates the installment of an investigation committee.