Role of COI Committee

UNCG is required by federal regulations to evaluate, manage, and report conflicts of interest in instances where federal funding is involved. UNCG is also required by UNC System Policy to provide a mechanism for Annual COI Disclosure for all EHRA designated employees.

The main function of the Conflict of Interest committee is to review COI cases that relate to university responsibilities as well as research and other forms of scholarship. The Committee reviews conflicts and management plans to ensure both the university and any conflicted parties are protected with appropriate oversight mechanisms. This committee serves in an advisory role to the Provost’s Office and the Office of Research and Engagement.

Members of the committee are selected to be representative of the disciplines, but also knowledgeable of the topic at hand (including the COI regulations of not only the UNC system and UNCG, but also multiple federal agencies). Staff in the Office of General Counsel, Office of Sponsored Programs, the Office of Research Integrity, Innovation Partnership Services, and other offices provide additional expertise and consultation.

For situations that may generate a conflict that are not research related, those should be disclosed via the Annual COI Disclosure form when the situations arise, and updated during the Annual Disclosure process thereafter.   For example, situations involving faculty who own or have an interest in an outside businesses, or engage in a consulting relationship that could potentially overlap with their UNCG teaching or administrative responsibilities.