Georg-August University School of Science (GAUSS)

Good Scientific Practice

"The conduct of science rests on basic principles valid in all countries and in all scientific disciplines. The first among these is honesty towards oneself and towards others. Honesty is both an ethical principle and the basis for the rules, the details of which differ by discipline, of professional conduct in science, i.e. of good scientific practice." (Memorandum of the German Research Foundation, DFG, 2013:13)

The University of Göttingen is highly committed to preserve and safeguard the highest of scientific quality standards in research whilst enabling and fostering an atmosphere of openness, creativity and dedication to achievement. In the realization of these objectives, compliance with the principles of good scientific practice plays a pivotal role.

In educating and training junior scientists, the University is aiming to ensure the prevention of scientific misconduct, offer advice, help investigating cases of suspected violation of rules, and arbitrate cases of unclear authorship or other disputes.

The University has put in place new Regulations for Ensuring Good Scientific Practice in 2021 (English , German ) according to the recommendations of the new codex for good scientific practice from the DFG, which came to play on 1 August 2019 (English , German , for further information follow this link). All members of the University working in the science community shall be bound thereby. An Orientation Framework for Good Scientific Practice (English , German ) offers employees of the University and the University Medical Center guidance by formulating central standards of good scientific practice and explaining the ombuds system and its procedural paths at the University of Göttingen in a simple form.

Presumed victims or whistle blowers can report suspected cases of scientific misconduct to the Office of the Ombudsperson and Good Scientific Practice, where more detailed information about internal University Ombudsperson procedures can be obtained. As required the ombudspersons have consultative roles and explore the circumstances of a case. In principle, every case is treated confidentially. If you are involved in a current conflict, you can confidentially address your inquiry to the Office of the Ombudsperson and Good Scientific Practice.
Here, you have the opportunity to receive personalized advice and coaching. The Medical Faculty has its own committee that can be contacted in matters concerning the University Medical Center Göttingen.

Use of KI models like ChatGPT

In spring 2023 the University of Göttingen issued guidelines for the use of ChatGPT and AI-based language models. More information can be found under PhD Thesis.

Avoiding 'predatory publishers'

Predatory Publishing refers to exploitative academic publishing practices that prioritize profit over scholarly integrity. These publishers often solicit articles from researchers through aggressive and deceptive tactics, promising rapid publication and sometimes charging high fees.
Publishing in predatory journals can damage a researcher’s reputation and credibility. It may be viewed negatively by peers, hiring committees, and funding bodies. More information can be found on the webpage of the university.
OpenAccess journal recommendation service supported by the SUB.

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