Research Office

COI Frequently Asked Questions

COI - Definitions

1. What is a conflict of interest (COI)?
2. What is a significant financial interest (SFI)?
3. Do the SFI exclusions include foreign governments and institutions of higher education?
4. Who is considered a “family member”?
5. What is a conflict of commitment (COC)?
6. What is a disclosure form (declaration)?
7. What is an “outside activity”?
8. What are examples of conflicts of interest in research?

FAQs - RCOI Policy 

1. What does the COI Policy address?
2. What policy addresses what outside activities faculty/staff can participate in?
3. What policy addresses when faculty/staff can work with family members or members of their household?
4. What policy addresses when faculty/staff can procure goods or services when a COI exists?
5. Why does the University need a COI Policy?
6. Why is disclosure necessary?
7. Who will be able to see my disclosed financial interests?
8. If I disclose a financial interest, will it delay submission of my proposal?
9. If it is determined that I have a COI, will it affect the acceptance of an award?
10. Why are “family members” and their financial interests included in what I have to disclose?
11. Can I start a company… consult… serve on a board of directors… lecture at another University… etc.?

FAQs -  RCOI Disclosure 

1. I don’t have a COI, why do I have to complete a disclosure form?
2. Where do I find the disclosure form?
3. Who has to disclose?
4. How often do I have to disclose my financial interests?
5. Why do I have to complete another form if I completed one last year?
6. How long will it take to complete the form?
7. What types of activities/interests do I have to disclose?
8. Who is going to see my disclosure form?
9. What happens after I submit my disclosure form?
10. Who determines if a conflict of interest exists?
11. What happens if I have a research COI?
12. What is a Conflict of Interest Management Plan?