An understanding of the issues concerning the conduct of scientific and scholarly research in an increasingly complex world has become critical in successfully navigating the research landscape. Intentional education in how to conduct research responsibly and with integrity is essential to the preparation of future researchers, scholars and professionals.

To help prepare University of California Riverside graduate students and post-doctoral scholars for their future research and scholarship, and to ensure that faculty are prepared to support their students, a plan for providing the foundation of responsible and ethical conduct has been developed in coordination with Graduate Council, the Vice Provost and Dean of Graduate Studies, and the Vice Chancellor for Research.

The plan is predicated on the belief that an understanding of the ethical dimensions of practices which are fundamental to scientific and scholarly research is a necessary starting point, and such understanding is attainable through both basic didactic training and reinforcement through more advanced discussion. It is the belief that this plan will provide a foundation for all graduate students as well as others pursuing a career in research.

While we understand that the primary responsibility for adhering to professional standards lies with the individual scholar, it is also the responsibility of advisors, faculty, and of the disciplinary community at large. We encourage proactive approaches to research integrity and professional conduct through collaborative engagement in training and education efforts. 

Through June of 2026, you can reach out to Dena Plemmons, Ph.D., the Director of the Research Ethics Education Program, if you have any questions, if you're looking for approaches/strategies to explore these issues, or if you'd like to be connected to resources.  She can be reached at dena.plemmons@ucr.edu. 

*If you are interested in the specific regulations, requirements, policies and processes regarding submission and approval of protocols for IRB, IACUC, IBC, DURC and SCRO, or if you need to submit a financial conflict of interest disclosure form, please contact the UCR Office of Research and Economic Development.