University Times

Pitt is revising its research integrity policy to simplify and clarify procedures for investigating research misconduct allegations.

Among other things, the revisions also will:

* Bring Pitt's policy into line with new federal definitions of research misconduct.

* Extend the policy to cover staff and students who work on Pitt research projects, not just faculty and research associates.

* Add explicit protections for good-faith whistleblowers against retaliation, as well as sanctions against persons who make false allegations out of malice or reckless disregard of facts.

* Expand the powers of Pitt's research integrity officer (a job currently held by former Faculty of Arts and Sciences Dean Jerome L. Rosenberg) to increase uniformity of practice throughout the University.

Pitt last revised its research integrity policy in 1994.

Provost James Maher has asked University Senate committees to review and comment on the proposed revisions by the end of the summer. Faculty, staff and students may obtain copies of the revised document from the Senate office at 1234 Cathedral of Learning, and submit comments to that office.

— Bruce Steele