Adherence to the principles of good research practice is essential for good science. The University of Passau supports you, the established and early career researchers, in adhering to the following principles:
Good research practice
The University of Passau has adopted rules for the ascertainment of good research practice and for the investigation of alleged academic misconduct [German], which are binding for all members of the University. This policy document was elaborated by representatives of the University Executive, faculties, central services and facilites, and the academic support divisions.
In case of conflict between doctoral students and supervisors, or if there are suspicions of academic misconduct, the ombudsperson can be contacted directly.
The Graduate Centre offers non-subject-specific training courses to support prospective and current doctoral students and postdoctoral researchers in the successful completion of their research projects and their personal development, and promotes their professional success within or outside the academic field. Current seminar topics within the framework of good scientific practice can be found in particular in the digital education portal for the doctoral and postdoctoral phase (English an German).
Confidential advisors are contact persons for early-stage researchers at the university. They provide advice on conflicts or problems in the supervisory relationship, for example between doctoral candidates and supervisors or between postdoctoral lecturers and their subject mentors. The aim is to mediate in difficult supervisory situations and find constructive solutions.
Ombudspersons, on the other hand, are responsible for all researchers at the University of Passau. They advise on questions of good scientific practice and on dealing with scientific misconduct. Their task is to advise, to investigate suspected cases of scientific misconduct confidentially, to mediate and, if necessary, to refer the case to the Standing Committee.
If misconduct is confirmed by the commission, the university management will take appropriate measures. Depending on the severity, these range from warnings or conditions to consequences under labour, examination or service law.
In all cases, the matter will be investigated carefully and fairly.
Yes. Ombudspersons are subject to a strict duty of confidentiality.
Information is only disclosed if this is necessary for a fair investigation – and only with the consent of the person concerned or in accordance with the rules of procedure.
Ombudspersons are independent trusted individuals who:
They act independently, confidentially and are committed to the principle of fairness.
Individuals who report concerns (“whistleblowers”) are protected as long as they act with honest intent.
Their identity will be kept confidential and they will not suffer any disadvantages as a result of their report.
The aim of the proceedings is to clarify, not to sanction, individuals who honestly address concerns about misconduct.
The ombudsperson will first conduct a confidential consultation. If the suspicion is confirmed, they will examine whether an informal resolution is possible.
If this is not the case, they may refer the case to the Standing Committee for the Investigation of Allegations of Academic Misconduct, which will initiate formal proceedings.
Throughout the entire process, the ombudsperson will remain mediating, supportive and neutral.
Yes. You can contact an ombudsperson confidentially at any time, even if you only have a suspicion.
A formal complaint is not necessary at first – anonymous consultation is also possible.
The ombudsperson will examine the facts of the case, advise you on possible next steps and ensure the protection of all parties involved.
Scientific misconduct occurs when the principles of good scientific practice are violated intentionally or through gross negligence. Examples include:
The exact definition can be found in the Statutes of the University of Passau on Ensuring Good Scientific Practice.
If you encounter circumstances that jeopardise your ability to adhere to good scientific practice (e.g. pressure, conflicts of interest, lack of resources or unclear responsibilities), seek early dialogue – ideally with your supervisor or confidentially with an ombudsperson.
They can help you find solutions before a conflict or violation arises.
If you have general questions about good scientific practice, you can contact:
The ombudspersons are available as independent, confidential contacts for all researchers and students.
