A researcher has the right to restrict his/her research as desired

Doctor X requested TENK to clarify whether docent Y was guilty of disregard of research integrity in the restriction of the subject of his/her Doctoral dissertation in the field of military science in such a way that he/she would have omitted critical information on purpose. According to doctor X, docent Y also did not take doctor X’s published studies on the same subject into consideration. Doctor X was dissatisfied with the decision the university made on the mater. According to the decision, there was no verification of disregard.

In its statement, TENK concurred with the university’s view. As a researcher, docent Y had the right to restrict his/her research any way he/she desired. The appropriateness of restriction is an issue that is part of the sphere of academic discussion. Academic disagreements concerning interpretation do not violate responsible conduct of research.