A Conflict of Interest is a divergence between an individual’s private interests and their professional obligations to the University such that an independent observer might reasonably question whether the individual’s professional actions or decisions are determined by considerations of personal gain, financial or otherwise. For example, conflicts of interests occur in situations in which personal considerations may compromise or appear to compromise a researcher’s professional judgment in conducting or reporting research.

The University Conflict of Interest Committee (COIC) is responsible for (a) reviewing conflict of interest disclosures, and (b) developing, approving, and monitoring  plans to manage or eliminate conflicts of interest.

Types of conflicts that should be reported:

Conflicts of commitment arise when university employees’ involvements in outside activities substantially interfere with their primary commitments to the university: to teach, to conduct research and to meet related institutional obligations.

Financial conflicts of interest arise when university employees' involvements in outside business activities substantially interfere with their primary commitments to the university: to teach, to conduct research and to meet related institutional obligations.

Personal conflicts of interest arise when university employees' involvements in personal activities or relationships may impair their ability to act impartially and substantially interfere with their primary commitments to the university: to teach, to conduct research and to meet related institutional obligations. These relationships may include spouses, siblings, relatives, friends or any other close personal relationships.