The course provides participants with specialist knowledge of research ethics, gives them space to reflect on their values and attitudes as researchers and as supervisors of qualification theses, and allows them to practise skills for dealing with conflict situations in their research practice. Participants acquire knowledge of the rules of good scientific practice and train their skills in making responsible decisions in everyday research.

Module 1 (Basic): Introduction to GWP & Ombudsman Services (08.05.2026)
This module teaches the basic principles of good scientific practice and highlights areas where grey areas and conflicts typically arise in everyday research. It addresses rule violations and scientific misconduct as well as ways to prevent them. One focus is on ombudsman services and the competent handling of conflicts. Participants learn to make responsible decisions in a scientific work context and gain an overview of national and international frameworks.

Contents:
• Scientific process and the role of self-regulation
• Historical development of GWP
• National and international statutes
• Forms and degrees of scientific misconduct
• Dealing with conflicts and misconduct
• Ethical principles
• Ombudsman system & whistleblowing
• Case studies
• GWP/GSP resources

Module 2: Research Data Management (05.06.2026)
This module focuses on the responsible handling of research data. Participants will learn how to correctly document, store and archive data and which institutional guidelines must be observed. Case studies will highlight the risks involved and how they can be avoided.

Contents:
• Documentation
• Data storage and archiving
• Case studies
• GSP resources

Module 3: Publication process, authorship, plagiarism & AI (26.06.2026)
This module focuses on the challenges surrounding authorship, publications and scientific integrity. Issues such as the order of authors, responsibilities in author teams and the line between legitimate citation practice and plagiarism are addressed. Participants develop strategies for dealing with conflicts responsibly and learn to recognise risks such as predatory journals. In addition, various forms of plagiarism are explained and common checking and detection tools are presented. Another focus is on the use of AI tools, their possibilities, limitations and the associated requirements for transparency and scientific integrity. 

Contents:
• Publication process
• Authorship
• Predatory journals, hijacked journals, paper mills
• Plagiarism and detection software
• Use of AI
• Case studies
• GSP resources

Required for the live online course: Your own computer with fast internet access, camera, microphone and loudspeakers. If possible: cable LAN and headset.