2.2 Misconduct in Science Policy

Revised 3/14/00

"Misconduct in Research means fabrication, falsification, plagiarism, or other practices that seriously deviate from those practices that are commonly accepted within the research community for proposing, conducting, or reporting research. It does not include honest error or honest difference in interpretations or judgements of data". (PPM 6-1.IV.D)

All potential instances of scientific misconduct should be reported to the Scientific Integrity Officer of the University of Utah. Currently, the Associate Vice President for Research holds this position.

2.2.1 Summary of Research Misconduct Policy

Timelines: (Days refer to WORKING Days)

1. Notification of possible misconduct to Research Integrity Officer (RIO).
2. RIO must notify respondent (Person whose actions are the subject of the inquiry) of allegation and composition of Inquiry Committee.
3. Respondent has 10 days to object to committee composition.
4. One week after the Inquiry Committee convenes, a decision shall be made whether or not to pursue the allegation.
5. The Inquiry Committee shall have a completed recommendation within 60 days of initiating the inquiry. This recommendation is made to the Vice President for Research.
6. If the Inquiry Committee determines that an investigation should ensue, the Investigation Committee shall convene within 30 days of the inquiry.
7. The Investigation Committee has 120 days after the investigation begins to render a recommendation.
8. The respondent or RIO may request a formal hearing within 10 days of the receipt of the Investigation Committee determinations or recommendations.
9. The Hearing Committee shall submit its findings of fact and recommendation within 10 days after the conclusion of the hearing.
10. The Vice President for Research shall issue a decision within 10 days after reviewing the determination and recommendation, including recommendation on the sanction, if any.
11. An appeal may be made to the President of the University within 30 days after notification from the Vice President for Research.

Notification to Sponsor

1. The Federal Office of Research Integrity (ORI) should be notified immediately when an inquiry begins involving funds from the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).
2. The Hearing Committee shall submit a report to ORI 120 days after the hearing begins.
3. In the event that the misconduct may have serious repercussions or be criminal in nature, ORI must be notified immediately.
4. Other federal sponsors must also be notified within the same timelines.

Committee Assignment and Composition: (no committee will have more than 5 members)

1. Inquiry Committee: established by the Research Integrity Officer.
2. Investigation Committee: established by the Research Integrity Officer and approved by the Vice President for Research.
3. Hearing Committee: established by the Research Integrity Officer and approved by the Vice President for Research.