Research Misconduct

Research Misconduct is defined Fabrication, Falsification, Plagiarism, or any other practice that seriously deviates from practices commonly accepted in the discipline or in the academic and research communities generally in proposing, performing, reviewing, or reporting Research and Creative Activities. 

Misconduct does not include appropriative practices in the Creative Arts insofar as they accord with accepted standards in the relevant discipline. 

Misconduct does not include honest error or honest differences in the interpretation or judgment of Research data. 

Process

• Allegation of potential Research Misconduct is received.
• Preliminary Assessment conducted by RIO
  • If Respondent’s conduct could constitute Misconduct or Unacceptable research practice, and there is credible evidence to support further review of Allegation, then move to Inquiry.
  • If not, then case closed.
• Inquiry is the initial review of the evidence to determine if Investigation is warranted.
  • If Respondent’s alleged conduct could constitute Misconduct or Unacceptable research practice, and there is credible evidence to support further review of Allegation, then move to Investigation.
  • If not, then case closed.
• Investigation is used to determine
  • If Research Misconduct occurred, and if Respondent was responsible for it, and the extent, gravity, and consequences of the Misconduct.

Contact Information

If you have concerns regarding potential research misconduct

1.  Contact your supervisor, department chair or dean; or
2.  Contact Research Integrity Officer at rio@msu.edu or 517-432-6698; or
3.  Submit allegation via Misconduct Hotline