Research Misconduct

Research integrity is basic to the research enterprise. It is the responsibility of all scholars to model integrity in all of their research endeavors throughout their professional careers. Therefore, fabrication, falsification, plagiarism, or other practices that seriously deviate from those that are commonly accepted within the scientific community for proposing, conducting, or reporting research, are prohibited in all activities associated with the University of Northern Iowa.

Research is defined as the systematic collection or analysis of data intended to produce generalizable or transferable results (typically indicated by the intent to disseminate results), that is conducted by faculty, staff, or students affiliated with the institution. This policy is not intended to apply to student class projects that are not designed for public dissemination, but it does apply to all culminating student research projects such as theses and dissertations.

Research misconduct is defined as fabrication, falsification, plagiarism, or other practices that seriously deviate from those that are commonly accepted within the scientific community for proposing, conducting, or reporting research. It does not include honest error or honest differences in interpretations or judgments of data. Research misconduct is an intentional or knowing act of deception or a flagrant disregard of commonly accepted research or ethical practices.

All employees or individuals associated with the University of Northern Iowa must report suspected, observed, or apparent research misconduct to the Research Integrity Officer (see below). If you are unsure whether a suspected incident falls within the definition of research misconduct, you may contact the Research Integrity Officer to discuss the suspected misconduct informally.

UNI Policy on Research Misconduct

UNI Research Misconduct Procedures (PDF)

Reporting Concerns About Misconduct

All faculty, staff, students, and administrators at the University have a stake in maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our educational, outreach, and research activities. Research misconduct, whether deliberate or as the result of mistaken or sloppy research practices, must be identified and addressed in order to maintain those standards. Reporting possible misconduct allows us to take a dispassionate look at the individual circumstances in each situation and develop a level of response appropriate to those circumstances. Doing so helps address situations that need correction while respecting the rights and welfare of all affected individuals.

To report questionable research practices or incidences of observed or suspected misconduct, contact the UNI Research Integrity Officer (RIO):

Interim Associate VP Research & Innovation/Dean Grad College & Assoc Professor, Gabriela Olivares - gabriela.olivaes@uni.edu.

The University uses EthicsPoint to provide for the anonymous and confidential reporting of activities that may involve criminal, unethical or inappropriate behavior that violates the law or policies of the University or Board of Regents/State of Iowa. You may file a report on the EthicsPoint website or by calling EthicsPoint toll free at 866-ETHICSP (866-384-4277). Questions may be directed to Tim McKenna, University Counsel.