JU forms probe committee over research misconduct allegations

Jahangirnagar University (JU) has formed a five-member committee to investigate allegations of irregularities in research papers published by several of its teachers and researchers.

The decision was announced in an office order signed by Acting Registrar ABM Azizur Rahman today (3 August).

According to the order, the committee has been tasked with examining allegations of research misconduct following the retraction of several papers published in international journals.

It will also verify the authenticity of the allegations, establish the facts and submit a report with recommendations.

Dean of the Faculty of Mathematical and Physical Sciences Prof Mahbub Kabir has been appointed as the committee’s chair.

Deputy Registrar (General Administration) Md Mahtab-Uz-Zahid will serve as the member secretary.

The other members are Prof Mohammad Zahidur Rahman of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Prof Md Salekul Islam of the Department of Microbiology, and Associate Professor Mohammad Mamun Or Rashid of the Department of Bangla.

According to the university, the committee will investigate the reported irregularities and recommend necessary measures based on its findings.

The move comes after allegations of research misconduct led to the retraction of several papers authored by JU researchers in international journals.

According to an analysis by Retraction Watch, which tracks retracted scientific publications, 325 research papers linked to Bangladeshi researchers have been retracted over allegations of research misconduct and unethical practices.

Of those, 32 papers involved 18 teachers and four students from 11 departments and one faculty of Jahangirnagar University, according to the analysis.