ombudspersons
Committee on Good Scientific Practice
The Academy’s Commission on Good Scientific Practice is responsible for conducting a formal investigation. It consists of one full member from each class and two staff members.
Prof. Dr. Joachim Friedrich Quack
Ombudsman since 2024
- Class of Philosophy and History: Full Member since 2009
- Institution: Heidelberg University
- Work email:joachim_friedrich.quack@urz.uni-heidelberg.de
- Website:www.uni-heidelberg.de/fakultaeten/philosophie/zaw/aegy/institut/quack.html
Responsibilities and duties of this ombudsperson
To provide consultation, preliminary review, and mediation in cases of conflict regarding issues of good scientific practice, the Academy’s leadership has appointed an ombudsperson from among its members who is neutral and of high personal integrity. The ombudsperson’s primary responsibility is to serve as a point of contact for those involved, providing advice while strictly maintaining confidentiality, in cases where suspected violations of the principles of good scientific practice are brought to their attention. In addition, the ombudsperson will investigate the facts of the matter and, depending on the outcome, take further action. Further details can be found in the guidelines for ensuring good scientific practice.
Ombudsman for "Partnership and Cooperation"
Dr. Dirk Fonfara
Ombudsman since 2026
Responsibilities and duties of this ombudsperson
The “Partnership and Cooperation” Ombudsperson is appointed by mutual agreement between the Staff Council and the Executive Board for a term of four years. She may be contacted at any time for consultation, preliminary review, and mediation in cases of conflict involving bullying, discrimination, stalking, sexual harassment, or similar issues. They are also available to provide advice while maintaining strict confidentiality. Cases that cannot be resolved by the Ombudsperson are referred to the “Commission for Cooperative Behavior.” Further information can be found in the “Guidelines for Cooperative Behavior.”
Committee on Ethical Conduct
The “Commission on Cooperative Conduct” consists of four members. Two members are appointed by the Staff Council from among the employees, and two members are appointed by the Executive Board from among the Academy members. The term of office is four years. Each member may serve a total of two terms.