Other Important Information

Anonymous Reporting

The complainant may choose to submit an anonymous report; however, this may impede the ability of the Research Integrity Officer (RIO) to fully investigate the matter, as it is often necessary to ask clarifying questions of the person submitting a report to our office. To speak with someone on the phone regarding a concern—and still maintain anonymity—please contact the Research Integrity Coordinator in the Office of the Vice President for Research, Scholarship and Creative Endeavors at 512-232-3768 or rio@austin.utexas.edu.

Non-Retaliation

Individuals who report an allegation of research misconduct, in good faith, are entitled to receive protection from retaliation or retribution for doing so (HOP 3-1022). In addition, the University is further committed to protecting all parties who cooperate in the research misconduct process from retaliation, in accordance with HOP 7-1230. Any individual involved in a research misconduct case who reasonably suspects or experiences retaliation may report their concern to the RIO. All parties are informed of the University’s non-retaliation policy at the beginning of the inquiry process.

Confidentiality

To the extent possible, the RIO maintains the confidentiality of case details and documents. In addition, University policy stipulates that all persons involved in a research misconduct case also maintain confidentiality regarding the nature and details of the case. The RIO informs all parties of the confidentiality policy at the beginning of each phase of the case.

Mandatory Reporting to Funding Agencies and Regulatory Agencies

The RIO is responsible for reporting to the appropriate federal funding agency as required. Visit the Office of Research Integrity at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services online for a list of links to all federal funding agencies’ regulations regarding research misconduct.

Research Misconduct vs. Student Academic Misconduct

The RIO evaluates allegations of research misconduct involving students when a student’s work has been published—such as a dissertation or article—or has been used in a grant proposal. However, student academic misconduct involves work completed as part of a degree program—such as a master’s thesis—or academic work published in Texas Scholar Works. If the RIO determines that the allegation constitutes academic misconduct, the matter will be referred to Student Conduct and Academic Integrity.