A conflict of interest exists when significant financial interest considerations may compromise a researcher’s method in designing, conducting, or reporting research. The bias engendered by such conflicts may conceivably affect not only the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data, but also, the hiring of staff, procurement of materials, sharing of results, choice of protocol, involvement of human participants, and selection of statistical method approach and application.
Funding agencies may have specific policies related to conflict of interest that NIU and researchers must follow, researchers should familiarize themselves with these policies and consult with the Office of Research, Compliance, and Safety regarding any potential conflicts.