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Frequently Asked Questions

Compliance Resources

A central focus of the Research Compliance Administration is to foster responsible conduct of research and provide support for West Virginia University faculty, staff and students in their research endeavors through training, education and consultation.

In addition to the online RCR program, WVU Research Compliance Administration staff are available to:

  • Conduct RCR training and/or make tailored educational presentations to faculty, staff and students.
  • Consult on specific RCR issues.
  • Provide RCR materials for use in courses and other academic venues.
  • Liaise with the federal government, agencies, or professional societies regarding RCR issues.

FAQ

If I believe I have observed someone irresponsibly conducting research, what should I do?

If you believe you have discovered research misconduct, you should either report the misconduct via WVU Ethics Point (this is an anonymous reporting tool), or contact:

Marjorie McDiarmid
WVU Academic Integrity Officer
mmcdiarm@wvu.edu | (304) 293-6821

Once I report misconduct, what happens?

After you report misconduct, the procedures outlined in Part One: Responding to Academic Misconduct of the Academic Misconduct Policy will be followed.

I am a new graduate student, postdoctoral fellow, or faculty member and have received an email in error that states I have not completed the CITI online RCR course. Who should I contact?

Unfortunately, sometimes there are errors in any system. If you are mistakenly identified for not having taken the correct training, but you indeed did take it, please contact us and we will quickly remedy the problem. We appreciate your compliance and do not wish to burden you more than necessary.

I am a faculty member and would like to begin teaching the core areas of RCR during a regular course. Who should I contact to get more information or to organize course content?

If you would like to begin teaching RCR in your course, feel free to do so. However, it’s always best to contact our office for any possible resources you can use to improve your content. The Office of Research Integrity & Compliance can also schedule a lecture for your course or staff about the Responsible Conduct of Research if we are given advanced notice.