Responsible conduct of research (RCR) is defined as "the practice of scientific investigation with integrity." It involves the awareness and application of established professional norms and ethical principles in the performance of all activities related to scientific research.
NSF Responsible Conduct of Research Requirement
Effective January 4, 2010, the National Science Foundation (NSF) began requiring that, at the time of proposal submission to NSF, a proposing institution’s Authorized Organizational Representative certify that the institution has a plan to provide appropriate training and oversight in the responsible and ethical conduct of research to undergraduates, graduate students, and postdoctoral
researchers who will be supported by NSF to conduct research. For more NSF resources on the RCR requirement, please visit the NSF Website.
Governors State University Policy
In order to address the NSF requirement, all undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty researchers involved in the conduct of research of NSF-funded grants are required to complete RCR training prior to beginning work on the NSF-funded grant. Individuals must register for and complete the RCR online training provided through the CITI Program. The training is optional for students conducting research on other research-related projects. The Office of Sponsored Programs and Research will verify that any researchers included on NSF projects have completed the training.
RCR Training
CITI Program training available to all Governors State University faculty, staff, and students. When you register for the program, be sure to affiliate with GSU. Once an account is created, choose “RCR Basic Course” for Question 4. Leave the remaining questions blank and click the Submit button.