I work in a public research institute. A senior colleague infringes our integrity policies, commits plagiarism and insists that other junior colleagues publish in journals so that she gets a track record of scientific publications without writing a single line, just by providing feedback. I do not want to face up to her. We do not have a procedure to denounce that ensures no retaliation. How can I take action without putting myself in danger?

The Apolitical community responds:

  • Does your research institute have a whistleblower policy, ethics committee or ombudsman? These avenues will usually provide anonymity to complainant. — Muhamad Jantan, senior research fellow

  • Yikes, this is likely to make your organisation look bad too. Does her manager know? Do you feel comfortable raising it with them? — Anonymous

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