NSF RCR Training Requirement
The National Science Foundation has established a new training requirement in the Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) for students and postdocs supported by NSF projects. The new requirement applies to all undergraduates, graduate students and postdoctoral researchers who are funded by NSF projects submitted (and subsequently awarded) on or after January 4, 2010, including competitive renewals. The requirement does not apply retroactively to students and postdocs funded on projects submitted before January 4, 2010. The new regulations implement provisions of the America COMPETES Act.
Principal Investigators will be responsible for assuring that all postdocs, graduate students and undergraduates who are funded by their NSF projects submitted (and subsequently awarded) on or after January 4, 2010, complete RCR training.
BIO REU LC Activities
The BIO REU Leadership Committee will be working with the National Science Foundation over the coming months to identify tools appropriate for RCR training of undergraduates as well as working with the community of the development of new materials, training workshops, etc. If you’re interested in serving on a sub-committee dedicated to RCR training and materials development please contact Dr. Marty Matlock (mmatlock@uark.edu).
Links
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Instructional Resources
Responsible Conduct of Research Online Tutorials
- REU programs can create their own group account and track group member completion of training
US Department of Health and Human Services Office of Research Integrity
- Links to numerous educational resources
Science, Technology & Society Initiative
- Ethics in Science and Engineering National Clearinghouse
AAAS Office of Research Integrity
AAAS Integrity in Scientific Research
Books
- Scientific Integrity: Text and Cases in Responsible Conduct of Research by Francis L. Macrina
- On Being a Scientist: A Guide to Responsible Conduct in Research, National Academy of Sciences