Research integrity

Responsible research work is based on honesty, fairness, transparency, and diligence as well as compliance with ethical standards. Striving for new knowledge entails being truthful with oneself and others as well as being prepared to question all findings, including your own, and accepting critical discourse in the research community. Research integrity is the basis of society’s trust in academia, research institutions, and the people who work there.

Universität Hamburg is committed to the principles of research integrity and responsible research work and requires all employees comply with them, by following the Bylaws for Safeguarding Good Scientific Practice and Avoiding Scientific Misconduct at Universität Hamburg. The University also considers the tension between research freedom, described in the Code of Academic Freedom, and the risks of research (e.g., dual use). Good research practice also includes other aspects of research ethics as well as the Nagoya Protocol rules.

Universität Hamburg guidelines

What is good research practice?

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Photo: UHH/von Wieding

Every researcher is obliged to observe these principles and to comply with the rules of good research practice. This includes, among other things, subject-specific and research ethics standards as well as the responsible handling of research data and findings.

Good research practice

Ombuds matters

Advising on good research practice

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Do you need advice on good research practice or require support in an actual conflict? Whether an initial consultation or individual coaching on deescalation or intervention, we can support you.

Ombuds matters

Research ethics

Advising on ethically acceptable research

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Universität Hamburg is committed to ensuring that ethical principles are established and observed in research and researchers can contact the Ethics Committee for this purpose.

Research ethics

Nagoya Protocol

International regulations for research with genetic resources

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If you are conducting research with genetic resources (biological material, active substances) or with traditional knowledge, you need to be familiar with the obligations of Nagoya Protocol.