Fraud in Research

Research fraud is a form of scientific misconduct involving deception. It should be distinguished from honest error, which can occur inadvertently in any enterprise. It is often difficult when confronted with an allegation to determine where along the spectrum from error to fraud a particular case will lie.

1. Misconduct means
   • fabrication, falsification, plagiarism, or other serious deviation from accepted practices in proposing, carrying out, or reporting results from research;
   • material failure to comply with federal requirements for protection of researchers, human subjects, or the public for ensuring the welfare of laboratory animals; or
   • failure to meet other material legal requirements governing research.
2. Falsification of Data – ranging from fabrication to deceptively selective reporting, including the purposeful omission of conflicting data with the intent to falsify results.
3. Plagiarism – representation of another’s work as one’s own.
4. Misappropriation of Others Ideas – the unauthorized use of privileged information (such as violation of confidentiality of peer review), however obtained.

Hampton’s policies and procedures for dealing with research fraud will follow, essentially, the Policy on Faculty Grievance found in the Academic Handbook. However, the procedure for the investigation of fraud shall have at least four stages, namely:

1. An inquiry to determine whether the allegation or related issues warrant further investigation;
2. when warranted, an investigation to collect and thoroughly examine evidence;
3. a formal finding; and,
4. appropriate disposition of the matter.

To address allegations of fraud in research, Hampton University will designate a committee of senior administrators and faculty named by the President to carry out the above steps and further, to provide education about fraud; interpret guidelines from federal agencies; counsel staff, and disseminate this policy and others.