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A new wind in the ombudsman system: Dr. Halle takes over leadership at the MHH
Dr. Olga Halle takes over the management of the ombudsman's office at the MHH. She advises on good scientific practice and conflicts.
A new wind in the ombudsman system: Dr. Halle takes over leadership at the MHH
On July 1, 2023, Dr. Beate Schwinzer handed over the management of the Ombudsman's Office to Dr. Handed over to Olga Hall. Dr. For the past nine years, Schwinzer has advised students and researchers at the Hannover Medical School (MHH) on questions of good scientific practice (GWP). This time was characterized by support and accompaniment in conflict situations as well as education about scientific standards.
Dr. Halle, an experienced infection biologist, was led by Dr. Schwinzer was comprehensively familiarized with her new tasks. This ensures that the competencies and continuity of the office are maintained. Professor Dr. Thomas Werfel, Ombudsperson and Director of the Dermatology Clinic, highlights the experience of Dr. Halle and emphasizes that the new management is also able to adequately master the challenges in the area of GWP.
Duties of the office
The Office of the Ombudsman aims to support the ombudsperson, investigate suspected cases of scientific misconduct and offer workshops on good scientific practice. Important elements of scientific misconduct include data falsification and unauthorized appropriation of intellectual property. Dr. In this context, Halle emphasizes strict confidentiality when dealing with concerns, which is of great importance for those affected.
The consultations are based on the guidelines of German Research Foundation (DFG) as well as the recommendations of the University Rectors' Conference. The MHH also has a legally binding GWP code that is specifically tailored to the institution and thus contributes to maintaining scientific integrity.
Current developments
Professor Werfel points out that many errors in scientific work result from uncertainty or pressure. In the recent past, the number of plagiarism allegations has decreased while questions about data maintenance have increased. The inquiries also often concern supervision problems and questions about authorship. In such cases, the ombudsperson mediates between the parties involved in a neutral and solution-oriented manner.
If an agreement cannot be reached, the Ombudsperson has the option to recommend a formal investigation by the GWP Commission. Professor Werfel's term as Ombudsperson ends in September 2025, after which the Senate will elect a new Ombudsperson.
Only twelve other universities and research institutions in Germany have set up their own ombudsman office. The Ombudsman Board for Scientific Integrity in Germany, supported by OWID e.V., also offers support with questions about GWP and scientific integrity. Inquiries are treated here neutrally, fairly and confidentially, which is essential for a solid scientific basis.
Overall, the ombudsman system at the MHH is an important part of ensuring good scientific practice and promoting an understanding approach to conflicts in science.