Responsible Research Practices

RCR Training Requirements
RCR Resources
Report Research Misconduct

Program Objective

Oregon State University is committed to fostering an environment that facilitates research integrity. As such, the Program for Responsible Research Practices provides guidance, training resources, and support for students, staff, scholars, and faculty in their efforts to maintain and model integrity in research.

A group of people gather around a clear wall with post it notes.
Photo by Vitaly Gariev on Unsplash

Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) refers to:

  • Practicing integrity in every aspect of research and in accordance with the core values and professional norms of individual disciplines and those agreed upon by the research community, and
  • A collection of training topics that are suggested or required by various federal funding agencies.

"The integrity of knowledge that emerges from research is based on individual and collective adherence to core values of objectivity, honesty, openness, accountability, fairness, and stewardship."

—National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2017. Fostering Integrity in Research. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press.are suggested or required by various federal funding agencies.

"The responsible and ethical conduct of research (RECR) is critical for excellence, as well as public trust, in science and engineering. RECR involves not only a responsibility to generate and disseminate knowledge with rigor and integrity, but also a responsibility to:

  1. Conduct peer review with the highest ethical standards;
  2. Diligently protect proprietary information and intellectual property from inappropriate disclosure; and
  3. Treat students and colleagues fairly and with respect.

Consequently, education in RECR is considered essential in the preparation of future scientists and engineers."

—NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide, Chapter IX – Grantee Standards, June 1, 2020

If you would like to make an anonymous report related to any violation of ethical standards or institutional policies, we encourage you to use the Accountability & Integrity Hotline: EthicsPoint