Ministry Holds Professor Appointment Pending Academic Ethics Review
The Ministry of Higher Education has halted a professor appointment proposal pending an ethics investigation into a Chiang Mai University staff member's research practices and academic credentials.
On August 23, Prof. Dr. Suphachai Pathumnaakul, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, clarified that the ministry has not yet submitted a proposal for royal endorsement to appoint a Chiang Mai University staff member to the rank of professor. This is because the ministry is still investigating facts and allegations related to complaints, particularly regarding research ethics and how the academic work was obtained. Clear and complete data is required before proceeding to the next stage.
The Permanent Secretary stated that in May, the ministry's office had written to Chiang Mai University requesting additional information and evidence for fact-checking in the complaint case. However, as of now, the ministry's office has not yet received the additional information and documents from Chiang Mai University.
Fact-checking, determining whether research ethics violations occurred, and any disciplinary action remain the responsibility of Chiang Mai University as the employing institution. The ministry will act only within its legal authority and mandate.
Prof. Dr. Suphachai added that the ministry places high importance on research ethics as it is fundamental to building knowledge and academic work. If research and academic outputs lack accuracy or do not follow ethical principles, it undermines the credibility of Thailand's higher education, science, research and innovation system.
He confirmed that the ministry will handle the matter carefully, fairly, and in accordance with academic standards and law. The ministry will not submit a proposal for royal endorsement until there is clear and sufficient verification data.
