Leiden University · Faculty of Humanities

Thesis Supervision

Resources and guidance for thesis students supervised by Dr. Steven Denney

Ethics & AI

This page collects the key ethical guidelines, university policies, and regulations relevant to your thesis research.

Ethics Review

For BA and MA students: Your thesis research is reviewed for ethical concerns by your supervisor, not by the faculty Ethics Committee. During supervision meetings, we will discuss any ethical dimensions of your research design — particularly if your work involves human participants, sensitive data, or vulnerable populations.

Exception: Research Master students must submit their research for formal review by the Faculty Ethics Committee.

If you are unsure whether your research requires formal ethical review, consult your supervisor early in the process.

Flowchart: Use the faculty’s Ethics Checklist and Flowchart (PDF) to determine whether your research needs formal review.

Code of Ethics

All thesis research must comply with the principles outlined in the Code of Ethics for research involving human participants. The code addresses informed consent, confidentiality, data storage, and the rights of research subjects.

Generative AI Policy

The Faculty of Humanities has established guidelines governing the use of generative AI (GenAI) tools in academic assessment. Key points:

  • GenAI tools may be used only in ethical, responsible, and transparent ways
  • Unless explicitly permitted by your supervisor, AI-generated content may not be submitted as your own work
  • Any approved use of GenAI must be disclosed and properly cited
  • When in doubt, ask your supervisor before using GenAI tools in your research or writing

Required resources:

Plagiarism

Plagiarism is a serious academic offense. It includes presenting another person’s work, ideas, or words as your own without proper attribution. This applies equally to printed sources, internet sources, and AI-generated content.

Consequences range from a failing grade to referral to the Board of Examiners. All theses are checked for plagiarism.

Academic Integrity

As a thesis student, you are expected to uphold the highest standards of academic integrity. This includes:

  • Honest reporting of research methods and findings
  • Proper citation of all sources using a recognized style, applied consistently (see your program page for specific requirements)
  • Transparent disclosure of any limitations, conflicts of interest, or use of AI tools

  • Respect for the intellectual property of others

  • Code of Conduct for Students — Faculty of Humanities
  • Faculty Rules and Regulations

Disability Accommodation

If you require academic accommodations due to a disability, contact your study advisor early in the process. Accommodations for thesis work (such as extended deadlines or alternative formats) are arranged through the formal university process.

Ethics Committee

Library & Writing Support