Research Misconduct
Consistent with Wentworth’s student-centered core values expressed in the university’s mission to “empower, inspire and foster innovation through experiential learning,” the university holds its faculty, research staff, and students to the highest ethical standards in the conduct of research.
Wentworth seeks to prevent any instances of research misconduct, and takes seriously the need to investigate possible instances, while protecting the positions and reputations of those who file complaints in good faith, witnesses, and those asked to serve on committees, so that any necessary investigations may proceed without fear or favor.
Supervisors must enforce these high ethical standards for conducting research and creating and maintaining records of the research. The risk of misconduct increases in an environment where there is a lack or deficiency of supervision.
Specifically, faculty supervisors, principal investigators, laboratory and center directors and Department Chairs, should clearly articulate standards and protocols for research, scholarship, and creative work, through discussion and review of research, and, when possible, with written guidelines and training that adhere to best practices.
The appropriate institutional response to research misconduct will vary with the facts and circumstances of each case. Wentworth has recourse to a variety of disciplinary actions against individuals whose conduct violates this policy, including, in severe cases and following applicable procedures, expulsion of a student or termination of an employee
This statement of policy and procedures is intended to carry out Wentworth’s responsibilities under the Public Health Service (PHS) Policies on Research Misconduct (including but not limited to 42 CFR Parts 50 and 93), as well as the corresponding policies and procedures on research misconduct of other federal agencies.
These Policies and Procedures for Responding to Allegations of Research Misconduct are made available to faculty, students, staff and the public, on Wentworth’s Policy Directory.
Designated Institutional Official
Sophia Maggelakis, Provost
Research Integrity Officer
Joseph Martel-Foley, Vice Provost