Responsible Conduct of Research FAQs

NJIT is committed to the conduct of research and research training activities in a scientifically responsible and ethical manner.

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. Ethical and responsible conduct of research is critical for excellence, as well as public trust, in science and engineering. Consequently, education in the responsible and ethical conduct of research is considered essential in the preparation of future scientists and engineers.

The Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) training is a part of funding requirements for both the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Science Foundations (NSF).

The NJIT Responsible Code of Conduct policy is located on the Office of Research website.

RCR Required Training: All NJIT employees including students, staff, post-docs, research associates, faculty and collaborators are expected to be in compliance with NJIT and federal requirements with respect to responsible conduct of research that emphasizes conflicts of interest, professional ethics, collegial and behavioral obligations to serve the basic foundation of a professional academic research workplace. 

RCR training and certification can be obtained through the online software system, CITI (Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative). The NJIT RCR training program includes both interdisciplinary general and program-specific RCR content.  It is intended to provide quality training experiences while offering flexibility for the learner. All those with an NJIT UCID and NJIT email address are able to register for RCR training via the CITI resource.