Scientific Integrity and Research Ethics

The administrative department Scientific Integrity and Research Ethics supports researchers in applying the basic principles of scientific integrity and complying with research-specific ethical and legal standards. Within its area of responsibility, it ensures the development of guidelines and the establishment and further development of suitable structures and processes. The administrative department is divided into three thematic units:

• The Scientific Integrity Unit supports the Commission for Good Scientific Practice in establishing a culture of scientific integrity and good scientific practice as well as the Integrity Commission in the procedures in cases of suspected scientific misconduct.
• The Research Ethics Unit, together with the Ethics Commission, supports researchers in applying ethical standards in the field of human research. It is also the contact and advice services for the handling of biological material and genetic resources from abroad for research purposes.
• The Animal Welfare Officers of the Animal Welfare and 3R Unit work at the interface between researchers conducting animal experiments and the authorities responsible for enforcing Swiss animal welfare legislation. They offer comprehensive advise on the reduction and avoidance of animal experiments (3R Principles).