Responsible Conduct of Research

Training in the Responsible Conduct of Research at OHSU

OHSU requires that all researchers take online courses in Responsible Conduct of Research, Conflict of Interest in Research, HIPAA, Respect at the University, and General and Laboratory Safety. In addition, many  programs require that you take courses such as CONJ 650, as well as receive training appropriate for your role--for example, classes on working with invertebrate animals. These courses and trainings, together with those required by OHSU, should be included in your training plan and you should document that you have taken them. However, while these are necessary, they are insufficient for a robust training plan according to NIH and NSF guidelines. The following section guides you in developing a plan for RCR to include in NIH proposals.

Creating a Plan for the Responsible Conduct of Research

As of January 25, 2010, there are new requirements for formal training in the responsible conduct of research (RCR). The notice (NOT-OD-10-019) can be found here. The NIH defines RCR as follows:

 

Responsible conduct of research is defined as the practice of scientific investigation with integrity.  It involves the awareness and application of established professional norms and ethical principles in the performance of all activities related to scientific research.

 

If you are a fellow, graduate student, or similar trainee, your proposals must detail how you will participate in regular formal and active training in responsible conduct of research. This applies to all fellowship awards (individual and institutional) as well as any other programs that support trainees.

This document can be downloaded and tailored to your specific RCR education. Note that these training plans MUST be individualized to account for the training you have already received and that which you require for ongoing education. For a list of some OHSU courses that meet some of these requirements, check here.  This spreadsheet  contains many of the offerings at OHSU. Specific components of training meeting the new requirements are called out in the far right column, although many of the other classes listed here would be considered part of your normal RCR training, depending on your role, and you should certainly include these trainings if appropriate. 

 

Courses

The following is a list of courses you may find valable in creating an RCR plan. Before adding them to your plan, be sure to contact the course director to make sure it is appropriate for you and that you are eligible to enroll. If you add them to your plan, include information about how they support your RCR goals. Please note that many departments and programs offer their own courses that may be appropriate for RCR training.


Updated July 8, 2016