The research misconduct post hoc inquiry as a measure of institutional integrity (DR)

The terms, institutional and scientific, integrity appeared in the literature 986 times from 2005 to 2015. How has the term integrity, with its dual definition, a) The accuracy, completeness and consistency of data and b) the adherence to a code of moral values, been applied to an institution? The authors suggest that a post hoc inquiry be instituted following the finding of an individual act of research misconduct to determine if the sponsoring institution, actively or passively, played a contributory role and if corrective action was taken. This would serve as one measure of institutional integrity.

Automated summary

From 2005 to 2015, the terms "institutional integrity" and "scientific integrity" appeared 986 times in the literature. The concept of "integrity" in an institution encompasses both the accuracy, completeness, and consistency of data as well as adherence to a code of moral values. Researchers suggest implementing a post hoc inquiry following the discovery of research misconduct to assess the sponsoring institution's role and actions in maintaining institutional integrity.