Research Conflict of Interest

Overview

A conflict of interest in research exists when the individual has interests in the outcome of the research that may lead to a personal advantage and that might therefore, in actuality or appearance compromise the integrity of the research.

Research Conflict of Interest and Conflict of Commitment

Principal investigators are required to disclose a financial or economic interest, using the Form 700U or another form specific to the funder. Oversight for research conflict of interest or conflict of commitment is overseen by the Research Administration and Compliance Office within the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research.

  • The faculty Conflict of Interest (COI) Committee is responsible for the review and assessment of all financial disclosures related to research projects at UC Berkeley and for determining any actions required to ensure that real or perceived financial conflicts of interest are managed or eliminated.
  • Research Administration and Compliance Office staff provide the operational support required to implement and administer COI Committee decisions

See the Research Conflict of Interest (COI) website and, specificially, the Conflict of Interest and Conflict of Commitment Comparison webpage, for more information, including specific disclosure requirements for different types of state and federal funding, including the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, Department of Energy, and more.