Financial Conflicts of Interest in Research
The ORRC is committed to ensuring that Principal Investigators and other project personnel conduct their activities with honesty and fairness, avoiding situations where personal interests could improperly influence their professional judgement.
The ORRC has implemented a Conflict of Interest in Research Program to create a transparent environment that maintains trust within the University and with external stakeholders. The Program ensures that research activities comply with federal regulations from 42 CFR Part 50, Subpart F, 45 CFR Part 94, NOT-OD-18-160, and the PHS Financial Conflict of Interest Policy. The Program includes the Conflicts of Interest in Research Committee (COIRC) and aims to maintain public trust in the institution's research and ensures compliance with relevant regulations by:
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Identifying, disclosing, and managing any potential conflicts between personal interests and professional responsibilities.
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Prevent conflicts where outside activities might affect the objectivity of an employee’s work, preserving the integrity of academic and professional standards.
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Provide clear guidelines for reporting and managing actual, potential, and perceived conflicts to help faculty and staff uphold integrity.
Conflict of Interest in Research Committee (COIRC)
The Conflict of Interest Research Committee (COIRC) is responsible for overseeing the implementation of policies related to financial conflicts of interest (FCOI) in research. Through compliance with federal guidelines, the COIRC strives to help the University manage, reduce, or eliminate any conflicts of interest that are identified.
Goals and Objectives
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Review potential conflicts of interest for investigators involved in sponsored projects and research.
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Determine whether conflicts can be managed and develop appropriate management plans.
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Address instances of non-compliance and recommend corrective actions.
COIRC Membership
The COIRC is composed of at least two Howard University practicing scientists from various academic units.
The COIRC Chairperson is Constance Ellison, Ph.D. M.S., Professor of Human Development and Psychoeducational Studies, Senior Associate Dean for Graduate Studies.
COIRC Meetings
The COIRC meets on an ad-hoc basis to discuss Significant Financial Interests (SFI) and other concerns that are related to conflicts of interest in research.
Education and Resources
ORRC staff serves Howard University faculty, staff, and students by helping them ensure that their research and teaching modules comply with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations and policies, as well as Howard University policies. ORRC staff are available to answer individual inquiries, meet with researchers and instructors, and to present and facilitate educational workshops and trainings.