Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR)

Responsible conduct of research (RCR) 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. In keeping with this philosophy and the requirements of certain funding agencies, the following framework for training in RCR is established.

RCR Training for Funded Projects

Certain applications to federal funding agencies such as the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) require the inclusion of a plan to ensure that grant personnel are trained in the RCR. The specifics of the training requirement vary among agencies and award types. Per federal requirements, TWU has implemented a RCR Training Policy (5.11) and has developed an RCR Training Plan for researchers. The TWU Office of Research and Sponsored Programs (ORSP) will assist principal investigators and grant personnel with the arrangement and implementation of face-to-face portions of RCR training as necessary to meet funding agency requirements.

RCR Requirements for Graduate Students and Graduate Faculty

Effective starting Spring 2013, all graduate students and their faculty advisors must complete RCR training through the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) online prior to initiation of research projects (e.g., professional papers, theses, and dissertations). For specific information regarding this requirement, visit the TWU Graduate School’s website. As a member of CITI, TWU offers several training options for researchers. Please note that Responsible Conduct of Research training and Human Subject Research training are different modules and fulfill different requirements. Make sure you are accessing the RCR course when completing the training for this requirement.

Page last updated 9:25 AM, March 8, 2024