Introduction to the Responsible Conduct of Research

As university research has become more complex, more collaborative and more costly, issues of research integrity have become similarly complex, extensive and important. Issues of research integrity now extend to appropriate methods for data "cleaning" in statistical analysis; management of professional collaborations "gone awry; and monitoring of conflict of interest issues among researchers and administrators; among many others.

The University has implemented a Responsible Conduct of Research Program to help sensitize the University research community to the wide range of ethical and professional issues that must be considered to ensure a climate of research integrity.

Mission of the RCR Program

Foster a university culture of research integrity focused on ensuring all researchers at Penn State share the ideal to conduct research responsibly.

Objectives of the RCR Program

• Increase knowledge and understanding of Federal regulations and University policies and guidelines pertaining to research.
• Promote understanding and judgment in applying the regulations, policies, and guidelines across a wide range of situations.
• Encourage best practices in the conduct of research and scientific investigations.
• Foster an ability to recognize an ethical choice and the ability to make a principled decision.
• Provide accessible educational opportunities and resources designed to support the mission of the RCR program.

We also offer tools to assist Faculty and Graduate Students in teaching and understanding research ethics issues.

• Teaching Tools