If it weren't so tragic, the irony might make you laugh – a Harvard Business School Professor who specializes in dishonesty was recently accused of cheating and placed on leave . Never mind the fact that Francesca Gino's professional reputation is sullied and her academic career possibly at a dead end, but those who have collaborated and co-authored papers with her for decades are now worried their work might soon be under the microscope.

No Place for ‘Fake It ‘til You Make It' in Academia

For this beau idéal of the behavioral science community to tumble so far from grace by allegedly fabricating data is demoralizing, but it's also likely infuriating for those who have studied under her, been evaluated by her, or been mentored or taught by her. (Though perhaps the title of her book Rebel Talent: Why it Pays to Break the Rules at Work and in Life should have raised a red flag or two.) Like her academic peers she collaborated with, any graduate students she may have advised have a right to be salty. They may be wondering how these allegations and the ultimate outcome may impact any of their own published work and academic future. The same goes for what recourse is available, or remuneration they may seek, against Harvard (or any one of the institutions she taught at) for courses they took under Gino. After all, universities have no-cheating policies and other academic conduct policies for students – so what happens when a professor is found faking their way through their work?

Is an Unethical Professor Leaving a Black Mark on Your Academic Record?

If you find yourself in a similar situation – involving a professor taking part in unethical, wrongful conduct – you may be wondering where to start. Should you file a formal complaint? Make an appointment with your Office of Student Affairs, Dean of Students, or another university department. If you're seeking guidance on getting the most out of a complaint of this nature and protecting your rights as a student as well as your academic and professional future, you may wish to secure legal guidance.

Should You File a Formal Complaint With Your University?

If this is something you are considering, be sure to begin documenting what you can about the situation. Keep any assignments, exams, and papers that your professor graded or gave feedback on. Record relevant conversations and meetings. Be sure to have your transcript on hand, if relevant, as well as the courses you were enrolled in and their financial impact. You will want to provide tangible examples of the impact this professor has had or may have on your academic record.

As a student, you are held to high academic standards and values and have a right to expect to be educated in an ethical learning environment by professors who promote and uphold standards of excellence. If your institution's or your academic record's integrity is compromised by a professor found guilty of wrongful conduct, this is not something to be ignored.

Don't Take This Lying Down

You've invested valuable time and money in your academic journey – too valuable to let something like this threaten your future. The Lento Law Firm has successfully represented hundreds of students nationwide in disputes over professors' misconduct, violations of students' rights, and related issues. Call 888.535.3686 or go online now to contact the Lento Law Firm's Education Law Team.