Conflict of Interest in Research
A conflict of interest (COI) may occur when an investigator’s personal or financial interests could influence or appear to influence their research activities. Conflicts are not necessarily prohibited, but they must be disclosed, reviewed, and managed when appropriate to protect research integrity and public trust.
To comply with federal regulations, sponsor requirements, and university policy, UHD researchers are responsible for completing required training and disclosing applicable financial interests.
COI Requirements
Investigators must:
- Complete CITI COI training course ID 241073 before using research funds and at least every four years thereafter.
- Disclose financial interests held by the investigator and applicable immediate family members that are reasonably related to their institutional responsibilities.
- Certify that they have reviewed, understand, and will comply with UHD Policy on Conflict of Interest in Research.
COI Research Process
The COI process generally includes:
- Complete the COI Certification
- COI Review – Disclosures are reviewed to determine whether a potential financial conflict exists.
- COI Committee Review – When required, the disclosure is reviewed by UHD COI Committee.
- Management – Identified conflicts may require a management plan or other mitigation measures.
- Updates – Investigators must report changes to previously disclosed financial interests as required.
- Travel Disclosures – Applicable research-related travel and financial interests must be disclosed in accordance with university and sponsor requirements.
Other Disclosure Requirements
Research-related COI disclosures are separate from other university disclosure obligations. Investigators may also be required to comply with UHD Outside Activities/Interests Disclosure Policy and UHD Ethical Conduct of Employees Policy, as well as applicable sponsor and federal disclosure requirements.