Research
Ethics and Integrity


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Introduction
The integrity of research images is an important component of responsible research conduct. Image duplication, inappropriate image manipulation and image fabrication undermine confidence in research findings and constitute research misconduct.

To support researchers in maintaining high standards of research integrity, HKUMed provides access to Proofig, an artificial intelligence-based image analysis platform designed to identify potential image duplication and manipulation in scientific figures and manuscripts. Proofig assists researchers in detecting possible issues before publication, thesis submission or external review.

Faculty Requirement
Researchers are reminded that research outputs containing images should be reviewed using Proofig prior to submission for publication.

Research postgraduate students are required to complete a Proofig image scan before thesis submission and submit the required Proofig documentation as part of the thesis examination process.

Use of Proofig is intended as a research integrity safeguard and does not replace the responsibility of authors, supervisors and principal investigators to ensure the accuracy and authenticity of research data and figures. 

Access to Proofig
The Faculty maintains institutional access to Proofig and allocates accounts to Schools and Departments.

Researchers and research students should contact their departmental administrator regarding:

  • Access arrangements
  • Local account details
  • Submission procedures
  • Department-specific workflows

Based on current Faculty practice, access is administered through departmental or school accounts rather than direct self-registration. 

Workflow
For Publications

  1. Prepare the manuscript figures.
  2. Submit images to Proofig.
  3. Review any flagged similarities or concerns.
  4. Correct genuine errors where required.
  5. Retain the Proofig report for record purposes.
  6. Proceed with journal submission once issues have been addressed.

For Research Postgraduate Theses

  1. Submit thesis images for Proofig analysis.
  2. Review the report with the supervisor where appropriate.
  3. Complete any necessary corrections.
  4. Retain the Proofig report.
  5. Submit the required page(s) of the Proofig report together with the thesis examination documents. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Is Proofig mandatory?
    Yes, researchers are expected to scan research outputs containing images before publication submission, and research postgraduate theses are required to undergo Proofig review as part of the Faculty's thesis submission process. 

  2. Does a Proofig flag automatically mean misconduct?
    No.

    A Proofig report identifies image similarities that may require review. Many flags arise from legitimate reuse, figure assembly issues or honest mistakes. Researchers remain responsible for reviewing and explaining flagged items where appropriate.

  3. What should I do if Proofig identifies a possible problem?
    You should carefully review the flagged images, verify the underlying data and correct any errors before submission. Supervisors and principal investigators should be consulted where necessary.

  4. Do I need to submit the entire Proofig report with my thesis?
    No. Current Faculty thesis procedures require submission of the first page of the Proofig scan report showing any suspected subimage duplication together with other thesis submission documents. 

  5. Who can access Proofig?
    Access is provided through School/Department accounts coordinated by the respective School/Department Office. 

  6. I cannot access Proofig or my department's quota has been exhausted. What should I do?
    Please contact your School/Departmental Office first. The Faculty Office will assist with account or quota-related issues with the School/Departmental Office as appropriate. 

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