Committee for Research Ethics

Tasks of the Committee for Research Ethics

KEF members

The MHH Commission on Ethics in Security-Related Research provides advice on research projects that pose risks to human dignity, life, health, freedom, property, the environment or peaceful coexistence. In the tension between academic freedom and research responsibility, the Commission offers support through advice and the assessment of ethical and other normatively relevant aspects. Furthermore, it promotes networking and raises awareness within the MHH regarding security-related aspects of research. It maintains contact with the Gemeinsamen Ausschuss zum Umgang mit sicherheitsrelevanter Forschung von DFG und Leopoldina.

The Commission’s work is governed by a set of statutes. Research staff at MHH should seek advice from the KEF before undertaking a research project if that project involves significant security-related risks. Security-related risks arise in particular in scientific work which is likely to generate knowledge, products or technologies that could be misused. Researchers should also contact the Commission if security-related risks become apparent whilst a research project is being carried out.