Research and Publication Ethics Policy
Poornima University gives utmost importance in encouraging the scholars & faculty members for the conduct of research by adopting specific codes, rules, and policies relating to research ethics which are as follows:
Honesty
There should be honesty and fairness in proposing, performing and reporting research work. One is required to honestly report data, results, methods and procedures, and publication status. Fabrication, falsification and misrepresentation of data won’t be considered as ethical.
Objectivity
Objectivity conveys the idea of distancing oneself from whatever has been studied and so findings depend on the nature of what was studied rather than on the personality, beliefs and values of the researcher. Moreover, one should try to avoid bias ness in designing the experiments, analysis and interpretation of the data, peer review, taking decisions related to personnel, writing grant, preparing expert testimony and dealing with other aspects of research.
Integrity
It characterizes both the institution and individual researchers belonging to that institution. As far as the individual is concerned, it is a feature of moral character and experience and the institution is required to create an environment that endorses responsible conduct by implementing standards of assured quality, reliability, and legitimacy.
Carefulness
It indicated taking care while carrying out a research to avoid careless mistakes. One should keep reviewing the research work carefully and ensure that the outcomes are reliable & credible. While playing the role of a peer reviewer too, one is expected to do the job effectively. Altogether, there shouldn’t be any avoidance or negligence while eliminating the errors.
Openness
One should always be prepared to share data and results, along with any new tools that have been developed while publishing one’s findings as it will help to enhance the knowledge. One should always be open to criticism and innovative ideas.
Respect for Intellectual Property
One should avoid copying others’ work. There can be negative repercussions for this act of plagiarism, hence, one should ask for permission before using others’ tools or methods, unpublished data or results. One should learn to respect the provisions of copyright & patents and develop understanding towards intellectual property rights.
Confidentiality
One should give absolute importance to the information provided in confidence. Following set guidelines in order to protect the sensitive data, is very much mandatory. One is expected to protect the confidential communications such as documents submitted for publication and grants, trade & military secrets etc.
Responsible Publication
One should publish to enrich the research quality and knowledge, not only to strengthen the career. This indicates that one’s contribution towards the research field has to be beneficial for the society as well.
Responsible Mentoring
It helps to educate, mentor, and advise students. Promote their welfare and allow them to make their own decisions. The mentors should act responsibly and execute research in a proficient manner which can assist in imparting valuable lessons to aspiring researchers. It is also the responsibility of the mentor to clearly assert the expected results and create an environment where smooth communication is encouraged. In fact, Mentors are expected to develop with their scholars or trainees a proper schedule for completing specific objectives.
Respect for Colleagues
Giving respect to the colleagues in the workplace creates healthy and productive working dynamic. There are various ways to inculcate a respectful attitude in an organization like clear professional communication, sharing credits of success, balanced division of workloads etc.
Social Responsibility
Social responsibility indicates that one should be accountable for fulfilling the civic duty which means actions of an individual must benefit the whole of society. It is also about balancing between the economic growth and the welfare of society and the environment. If one attains this equilibrium, then it can be said that the social responsibility is accomplished.
Non-Discrimination
One should avoid discrimination against colleagues or students on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity, or other factors that are not related to their scientific competence and integrity.
Competence
The focus should be on maintaining and improving one’s own professional competence and getting expertise through lifelong education and learning. One is required to take careful steps while promoting the work of specific research field.
Legality
Know and obey relevant laws and institutional and governmental policies.
The Research Ethics Committee comprises of the following members, namely:
President (Vice-Chancellor) as Chairman; Pro-President (Pro Vice Chancellor) as member Provost (senior administrative officers) as Member Registrar (senior administrative officers) as member All Deans & Heads as Member(s) Dean (R&D) as Member Secretary.
