An Australia based academic whose work was plagiarised by two Rhodes University academics commended the university for their handling of the case.
An Australia based academic whose work was plagiarised by two Rhodes University academics commended the university for their handling of the case.
Dr Rowena Martin, of the Australian National University, discovered that her work had been plagiarised after the two academics had the misfortune of having their manuscript sent to an outside reviewer, which happened to be her.
Martin commended Rhodes University for its stern decision.
She was quoted by University World News as saying, “I think that considerable credit is due to Rhodes University for investigating this issue and for displaying a very strong commitment to maintaining the quality, rigour, and integrity of the scientific research produced by its employees."
She said the disciplinary hearing was lengthy, and no doubt costly, but it is very reassuring to see that a process had been followed and clear decisions made with respect to research integrity.
“This sets a very valuable example to others that plagiarism and falsification of research data will not be tolerated by the scientific community,” said Martin.
The couple were found guilty at a hearing chaired by leading employment law expert advocate, John Grogan SC.
The two academics were found guilty of acts of serious misconduct and accordingly dismissed from Rhodes.
