Objectivity in Research
Objectivity in research is the practice of remaining impartial and unbiased in the pursuit of knowledge. It involves minimizing the potential influence of internal and external affiliations, partners, or stakeholders. It is also crucial to minimize the potential influence of personal beliefs, emotions, and preconceived notions on the research process. As a recipient of federal research awards, VCU is required to establish procedures supporting objectivity throughout our research ecosystem. This page is where we will post updates related to these procedures.
OBJECTIVITY in research overview:
- Training in potential conflicts of commitment
- Disclosure of potential conflicts of commitment (within 30 days and <annually)
- Review of disclosed potential conflicts to ensure appropriate management plans are in place:
- FCOIC: Required review of researcher’s financial relationships with research sponsors or others
- ICOIC: Required review of institutional or researcher relationships with research partners or others
- Monitoring and reporting by research teams and governance groups throughout the research lifecycle
- Concerns or questions about objectivity in research may be raised by anyone, via:
- Misconduct in Research Policy and review process
- VCU Helpline
In addition to the above, applicable to ALL research at VCU, some external sponsors have additional requirements or disclosures, including:
- A
- B
- C
DATA INTEGRITY AND SECURITY of research records:
- Training in Research Security (Cybersecurity and International Protection of IP)
- Disclosure and review/management of:
- DMP review and approval (initiated by researcher disclosure of DMP)
- International Affiliation review and approval (International Affiliations & Travel/Export Control)
- Monitoring and reporting by research teams and governance groups throughout the research lifecycle
- Monitoring and reporting by research teams and governance groups throughout the research lifecycle
- Concerns or questions about research data and intellectual property security area may be raised by anyone, via:
- VCU Research Security Officer consultation
- Export Control Officer consultation
- VCU Helpline