Ombudsperson

In accordance with the rules of the Max Planck Society, the Institute's scientific staff elect a neutral, qualified ombudsperson with personal integrity every three years to advise them on issues of good scientific practice and to act as a point of contact in cases of conflict.

The Rules of Good Scientific Practice in the Max Planck Society were adopted by the Scientific Council and approved by the Senate. Their content largely summarises the previously valid self-image of science. However, the competition for the best and fastest results and for research funding made a firmer basis necessary to ensure fairness and commitment.

The rules cover the principles of scientific work. They deal with methods, rights and obligations in publications, possible conflicts of interest, training and supervision of young scientists and, finally, in Article 9, the ombudsman system. Today, these rules are an integral part of employment contracts at the MPG and their main task is to provide scientists with guidance. They are part of the tools of the trade of basic scientific training and make the principles of scientific work transparent from the outset. In cases of conflict, they form a reliable foundation.

Dr. Mirjam Neusius was elected Ombudsperson of the Bibliotheca Hertziana on 17 May 2024 in a run-off election for a term of office of three years until 2027.