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Science in Focus: Ulm Professors Investigated for Image Manipulation!
Ulm University has discontinued proceedings against Professor Debatin and Professor Fulda for academic dishonesty.
Science in Focus: Ulm Professors Investigated for Image Manipulation!
On April 28, 2025, the Senate Commission “Responsibility in Science” at Ulm University decided to close two proceedings for image manipulation against Professor Klaus-Michael Debatin and Professor Simone Fulda. The commission concluded that although there was a violation of the principles of good scientific practice, no gross negligence could be proven. This decision followed a comprehensive review initiated in connection with allegations from a science blog that drew attention to the manipulation of image data in publications by the two doctors at the end of 2023.
The commission, which consists of five professors, an academic staff member, a doctoral student and a non-scientific member, examined the disputed publications in two separate procedures that had been running since the beginning of 2024. Image data analyzes were commissioned in both the proceedings against Debatin and in the proceedings against Fulda. In particular, comments were sought on their publications between 1998 and 2019.
Results of the exams
In the case of Professor Debatin, doubts about his duty of care could not be substantiated to such an extent as to establish gross negligence. The proceedings were therefore discontinued at the end of February. In contrast, Professor Fulda acknowledged in her proceedings that there had been errors and confusions in her more recent work, but the original data still exists. Despite her attempts to dispel doubts about her scientific integrity, she was unable to convince in her hearing, which also led to the case being discontinued.
The principles of good scientific practice that apply at Ulm University emphasize the importance of honesty, proper documentation and responsible handling of research results. However, a partial case against Fulda that is separate from the image manipulation proceedings remains pending.
Overarching principles of good scientific practice
In the context of current developments, this suggests Robert Koch Institute (RKI) lays down the principles of good scientific practice, which are binding for all employees. Important aspects include the comprehensible description of methods, the complete documentation of relevant data and the avoidance of data manipulation. The RKI also promotes further training in this area and creates framework conditions for high-quality research processes.
The new guidelines, which came into force on March 15, 2023, replace previous regulations and clarify the responsibility of research teams for scientific values such as transparency and integrity. A central point of the guidelines is the clear definition and punishment of scientific misconduct, which includes false statements and plagiarism.
Good scientific practice is not only strictly implemented at Ulm University, but is also promoted by institutions such as the RKI, so that a comprehensive basis for responsible research and documentation is provided. As part of this effort, the evaluation of scientists and their work is regularly adjusted to take both quantitative and qualitative aspects into account, strengthening the credibility of science as a whole.