Commission for Ethics in Research
In 2020, the Board of Directors of Forschungszentrum Jülich decided to establish a Commission for Ethics in Research (KEF). This decision followed a recommendation from the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina.
In their statement “Freedom and Responsibility in Science – Recommendations on Handling Security-Relevant Research” (2014, 2022), the DFG and Leopoldina suggested that, wherever possible, research institutions in Germany should establish such commissions to provide researchers and research institutions with guidance on security-relevant aspects of their work. By implementing this recommendation early on, the Board of Directors of Forschungszentrum Jülich demonstrated a strong commitment to scientific responsibility.
Operating at the intersection of scientific freedom and research responsibility, the interdisciplinary KEF provides support through consultation and assessment of ethical and security-related aspects of research projects. If a planned research project raises significant concerns or poses risks to human dignity, life, health, freedom, property, or the environment—or if such risks become apparent during the course of the project—Forschungszentrum Jülich employees, as well as the Board of Directors, can turn to the KEF for guidance. The same applies if a project carries the risk that its results could be used for non-peaceful purposes, leading to security-related concerns (dual use). This is particularly relevant for research that produces knowledge, products, or technologies that could be directly misused by third parties and pose a significant threat (dual use research of concern).
The KEF consists of 17 members, appointed by the Board of Directors for a four-year term starting on January 1, 2025, based on recommendations from the Scientific and Technical Council (WTR). The expertise of KEF members covers all scientific disciplines represented at Forschungszentrum Jülich, ensuring informed and competent evaluations.
The Commission is pleased to answer any questions about the KEF at KEF@fz-juelich.de.
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