A conflict of interest exists when a financial or other personal consideration may compromise, or appear to compromise, the design, conduct, or reporting of research. The Committee on Research Integrity (CRI) is charged with oversight of The University of Texas at Arlington’s Conflict of Interest Management Program. Some requirements of this program, per federal law, are to maintain and enforce a policy on conflicts of interest, and to inform individuals of this policy. UT Arlington and the CRI are responsible for knowing what conflicts might exist at the University and to manage, reduce, or eliminate those conflicts.
It is not the intent of the Conflict of Interest Program to hinder research or the entrepreneurial pursuits of the University community. In fact, it is understood that in today’s research enterprise, conflicts are inherent. Conflicts frequently arise due to the interaction between employees’ personal and/or financial interests, which are often closely tied to their University-based activities, and the opportunity to conduct externally sponsored research. In addition, positive research results often contribute to professional opportunities such as publication, grant renewals, promotion, tenure, etc. These opportunities to receive financial, professional, and/or personal rewards do not necessarily constitute an unacceptable situation. An actual or potential conflict of interest or commitment exists when it is reasonably determined that these potential rewards, financial or otherwise, could affect absolute objectivity in the design, conduct, or publication of research activities, or in other academic and professional decisions.
The key to handling these potential conflicts is full disclosure of the conflicting situation to identify it and allow the situation to be monitored and/or managed. The CRI is committed to moving research forward and fostering entrepreneurial spirit while maintaining objectivity and integrity. If a conflicting situation arises that will require management, the CRI will work in cooperation with the individual to devise and implement an appropriate plan. In many cases, merely disclosing all the facts of a situation will render it acceptable.
Available Forms
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The University of Texas at Arlington: Annual Conflict of Interest Disclosure Form |
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Additional Resources
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The University of Texas at Arlington: Policy and Procedures for Promoting Objectivity in Research by Managing, Reducing or Eliminating Conflicts of Interest |
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The University of Texas System Rules and Regulations of the Board of Regents: Equity Interests |
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The University of Texas System Rules and Regulations of the Board of Regents: Business Participation and Reporting |
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