2024 Course Schedule

·      Determine at which phases to involve different members of the “RIO team”;

·      Identify key resources and procedures needed for consistent research misconduct proceedings; and

·      Discuss the scope of the RIO’s role and understand the role of other players such as the DO, GC, Respondent, Complainant.

·      Define an allegation;

·      Define RM and FFP;

·      Understand how to trigae allegations; and

·      Conduct a preliminary assessment in accordance with PHS Regulations.

·      Understand how to plan for effective data sequestration, both virtually and in-person;

·      Identify barriers to successful data sequestration; and

·      Determine relevancy of evidence.

·      Understand when an inquiry is warranted;

·      Outline the steps to take before and during an inquiry;

·      Understand how to notice Respondent(s);

·      Define “need to know” “confidentiality” and the steps that are required before and during a notice; and

·      Draft a notice of inquiry.

·      Define vetting procedures to identify subject matter experts;

·      Discuss different models for the Inquiry phase (RIO, Inquiry Official, Inquiry Committee); and

·      Explain how to examine or train SMEs to examine evidence.

·      Understand how to determine if an investigation is warranted;

·      Understand required notifications if warranted and how to close the matter if not; and

·      The role of the Deciding Official.

·      Explain the transition from Inquiry to Investigation; and

·      Understand high-level overview of investigation procedures and resources.

·      Discuss the different levels of expertise for an Inquiry Official vs an Investigation Committee; and

·      Understand how to handle objections to committee members.

·      Understand the role of the RIO in supporting and assisting committees including with interviews, examining evidence and logistics; and

·      Understand the role of the committee and their responsibilities.

·      Discuss possible outcomes based on a preponderance of the evidence;

·      Exemplify how to assess intent; and

·      Understand how to determine corrective/administrative actions and necessary referrals.

·      Know best practices for report writing;

·      Understand the scope of various report and memorandum throughout the process;

·      Understand the role of the RIO and Committee in report writing; and

·      Discuss procedures for report drafting and finalization.

·      Define admission;

·      Know when to report an admission to ORI; and

·      Know when an admission can and cannot replace a committee finding.