Research Misconduct
Integrity is an essential component of ethical research and innovation. The Research Integrity Officer (RIO) oversees the University of Alabama’s process for reviewing allegations and evidence of research misconduct. The RIO also supports the institution’s efforts to promote the ethical research by providing educational materials and lectures to assist in educating faculty, staff, and students about the responsible conduct of research.
Definition of Research Misconduct
Research misconduct is defined as plagiarism, fabrication or intentional falsification of data, research procedures or data analysis, or other deliberate misrepresentation in proposing, conducting, reporting, or reviewing research. It does not include honest errors or honest differences in interpretations or judgments of data. In cases of allegations involving activities submitted to or supported by a federal agency, the definition for research misconduct specified in the agency’s regulations will apply.
Research Misconduct References
- UA’s Misconduct in Scholarly Activities Policy
- Office of Research Integrity (ORI) (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services)
- On Being A Scientist: Responsible Conduct In Research (National Academy Press)
Notice of Federal Whistleblower Protections
Reporting Research Misconduct
UA is committed to operating with integrity and in full compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies. The University does not tolerate retaliation against individuals who report compliance concerns in good faith. If you would like to report wrongful conduct, including those related to RCR and Research Misconduct, please use the UA Ethics Reporting System.
Allegations of research misconduct may also be reported directly to the Research Integrity Officer (RIO) by email or by phone.
Kory Trott, JD, MPH
Research Integrity Officer
(205) 348-3867
ktrott1@ua.edu