What occurs after there is sufficient evidence to proceed following the inquiry phase in research misconduct?

When sufficient evidence to proceed is identified following the inquiry phase in research misconduct, the next step is an investigation. This stage is critical because it involves a comprehensive examination of the evidence gathered during the inquiry to determine whether research misconduct has actually occurred. The investigation is typically more formal and detailed than the inquiry phase and may involve interviews, document reviews, and a deeper analysis of the findings.

The investigation aims to uncover the truth and clarify the nature of the misconduct, including potentially identifying any responsible individuals and assessing the extent of the impact on the research community. It also provides the opportunity for those involved to respond to the allegations and present their side of the story.

In contrast, options like evaluation, review, and closure do not specifically describe the formal and rigorous process that follows an inquiry when sufficient evidence is present. Evaluation can imply various forms of assessment but does not capture the focus on investigating allegations, while review typically refers to a less in-depth analysis. Closure suggests a resolution has been reached, which is premature without undergoing the investigation to determine the facts of the case.