Conflict of Interest/Scientific Misconduct Committee
The purpose of the committee is to develop necessary conflict of interest and scientific misconduct policies for the university, keep faculty abreast of these policies, and act on relevant referrals or complaints.
Membership
- Faculty (ten) at least one faculty representative from each college (two from A&S: 1 natural or social sciences; 1 humanities & fine arts)
- Staff (two)
- University Counsel or his/her designee (ex-officio)
- Vice President for Research or his/her designee - concurrent with office (non-voting)
Terms
- Faculty - three years with one-third of the committee elected each year
- Staff – three years, with one elected in odd-numbered years
- University Counsel or his/her designee – concurrent with office
- Vice President for Research or his/her designee - concurrent with office
Selection
- Faculty are elected every year by the University Senate in April to assume responsibilities in May.
- Staff Senate members are elected each year by the Staff Senate to assume their duties the following fall.
- University Counsel or his/her designee – concurrent with office Vice President for Research or his/her designee - concurrent with office (ex-officio)
Function and Responsibilities
To perform a thorough review of committee policies in even numbered years as preparation for any issues arising in the State legislative session in odd numbered years. This review is to be submitted to the Senate Executive Committee and the Senate Legislative Affairs Committee.
Acting of its own volition, upon the request of the Senate and/or others, the committee shall assume the following responsibilities:
- Review federal and non-federal funding agency policies and develop/revise university compliance policies.
- Take a pro-active role to inform faculty and university personnel of changes and potential areas of concern.
- Receive conflict of interest management training.
- Provide advice and consultation to the appropriate Vice Presidents and/or Executive Heads regarding referrals and complaints relative to conflict of interest and scientific misconduct.
- Adjudicate referrals and complaints relative to conflict of interest and scientific misconduct.
- Maintain and keep current committee website.
Report to Senate
Prepare an annual report which addresses each function and responsibility and submit it to the Senate secretary two weeks before the April Senate meeting.