Nordhausen University establishes an ethics committee for responsible research

Nordhausen University establishes an ethics committee for responsible research

In a significant step to strengthen research ethics, Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences launched its Research Ethics Commission (FEK) on June 19, 2025. President Prof. Dr. Jörg Wagner appointed five committed members who will take care of the ethical standards of research projects at the university over the next three years. The constitutive meeting has already taken place and the main processes and initial project proposals were discussed. This reports Nordthüringen.de.

The founding members of the FEK are as follows:

• Prof. Dr. Maik Arnold (Vorsitzender)
• Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Uta Breuer (Stellvertreterin)
• Dr. Andrea Kenkmann
• Prof. Dr. Stefan Kunde-Siegel
• Prof. Dr. Jiayi Wang

The FEK aims to ensure ethical acceptability in research at the university. For this purpose, studies with human subjects and sensitive data are particularly examined. An important task is to prepare reports and make recommendations in order to guarantee a high ethical level.

Trust through transparency

A central aspect that Prof. Dr. Maik Arnold emphasizes, is the creation of a transparent and reliable framework for responsible research. The establishment of this commission is intended not only to strengthen the trust of funding agencies and the public in the university's research, but also to support researchers in planning and implementing complex projects.

Research and development is very important at Nordhausen University. Close contact with the regional economy enables university lecturers to offer practical solutions to current challenges. This practical focus is also strengthened by the publication of the statutes for ensuring good scientific practice (HSN-SgwP), which, among other things, contains clear guidelines for avoiding scientific misconduct. This is another important step in ensuring credibility and high standards in research, such as hs-nordhausen.de explained.

Scientific integrity as a foundation

In addition to the measures already mentioned, the university strives to educate its researchers about the necessary ethical and safety standards. These standards are not only part of good scientific practice at Nordhausen University, but are also relevant for applicants to institutions such as the FWF (Fund for the Promotion of Scientific Research). Researchers are required to transparently present the benefit-risk assessment of their projects. The Austrian statement and procedure that suspected cases of violations of the guidelines on scientific integrity must be reported and, if necessary, examined ensures that everyone involved is treated fairly. Those interested can find out more about this on the website FWF.

Overall, the establishment of the Research Ethics Commission represents an essential building block in strengthening the research culture at Nordhausen University. Here, attention is paid not only to the quality of the research, but also to the fair and transparent implementation of it. This makes the university an attractive location for everyone who values ​​integrity and high standards in research.