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Misconduct in Research Scholarship and Creative Activities
Research Compliance
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs is responsible for fostering a research environment that promotes the responsible conduct of research, discourages research misconduct, and addresses allegations of possible research misconduct under Articles I and V of the Law of Regents, APS 1007, and requirements of federal agencies. The Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) webpage includes more information on research misconduct and other topics in research ethics, as well as upcoming RCR training events.
The Committee for Misconduct in Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activities (CMRSCA) investigates allegations of research misconduct.
Reporting Suspected Research Misconduct
If you have knowledge of or reason to believe that research misconduct has occurred, you can contact the university Research Integrity Officer (RIO) or a CMRSCA committee member directly or visit the CU EthicsPoint Hotline. The Guidelines and Procedures for Research Misconduct Allegations provides additional information on what to expect.
Committee on Misconduct in Research Scholarship and Creative Activities Members
CMRSCA meets at least twice each academic year, once in fall and once in spring. Additional meetings are called by the Chair of CMRSCA as necessary.
| Name | Appointment | College |
|---|---|---|
| Jessi Smith (ex officio) | Research Integrity Officer | |
| Hillary Fouts | Serving Research Integrity Officer | |
| Rhonda Glazier (Chair) | 2022-2026 (2) | Library |
| Helen Graham | 2023-2026 (1) | Beth-El |
| Robert Hirschfeld | 2023-2026 (1) | BUS |
| Patrick McGuire | 2023-2026 (1) | EDUC |
| Greg Plett | 2021-2026 (4) | EAS |
| Douglas Risser | 2023-2026 (1) | LAS |
| Rachel Thayer | 2023-2026 (1) | LAS |
| Henriikka Weir | 2024-2027 (1) | CPS |
Meet Your Research Integrity Officer
Research Integrity Officer
Jessi L. Smith, PhD
Dr. Smith got her start as a researcher right here at UCCS. She is a proud alumni. Her undergraduate degree from psychology afforded her the hands-on research experience that has resulted in a life long love of scholarship.
Starting August 12, 2024, Dr. Smith will be on assignment to the NSF as a program director within the SBE Directorate.
In cases of research misconduct, the Research Integrity Officer, or RIO, is the person on campus who, among other things, 1) helps guide and educate people considering submitting an allegation of misconduct on the procedures and requirements, 2) receives research misconduct allegations, 3) coordinates CMRSCA and its committees, and 4) communicates with those involved in the allegation, as well as University officials and any sponsors.
Serving Research Integrity Officer
Hillary Fouts, Ph.D
To ensure continued support for faculty while Dr. Smith is away working with the NSF, Dr. Hillary Fouts will step in as Acting Associate Vice Chancellor and Vice Provost of Research, including serving as Research Integrity Officer. She will continue to serve in her role as Dean of the Graduate School.
What is a Research Integrity Officer (RIO)?
In cases of research misconduct, the Research Integrity Officer, or RIO, is the person on campus who, among other things, 1) helps guide and educate people considering submitting an allegation of misconduct on the procedures and requirements, 2) receives research misconduct allegations, 3) coordinates CMRSCA and its committees, and 4) communicates with those involved in the allegation, as well as University officials and any sponsors
Resources
- University of Colorado System Research Policies and Procedures (APS 1007)
- University of Colorado Colorado Springs Guidelines and Procedures for Research Misconduct Allegations - March 1, 2023
- Committee on Misconduct in Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activities Bylaws
- Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) Page
- Office of Research Integrity (ORI) website Handling Misconduct