Research on Research Integrity Program (RRI): This program seeks to foster empirical research on societal, organizational, group, and individual factors that affect, both positively and negatively, integrity in research. Integrity is defined as the use of honest and verifiable methods in proposing, performing, and evaluating research and reporting research results with particular attention to adherence to rules, regulations, guidelines, and commonly accepted professional codes or norms. Proposals must have clear relevance to biomedical, behavioral health science, and health services research. Applicants are strongly encouraged to take into consideration problem or issues that are relevant to the missions of DHHS, NIH, NIEHS, or specific NIH institutes and programs.
Institution: Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois
PI: CK Gunsalus
Funding Opportunity Number: IR-ORI-25-001
Project Title: Beyond Compliance: Advancing Research integrity through Climate Data, Interpersonal Skills, and Institutional Insight
Abstract:
This project advances research integrity by examining how individual skills and institutional climates influence ethical behavior, moving beyond mere rule compliance. Using a novel multilevel model that integrates behavioral, emotional, and social skills (BESSI), interpersonal climate (CARES), and institutional climate (SOURCE), the team will survey researchers across career stages via the secure Results Analysis Engine (RAE) platform, enabling benchmarking, anonymized data collection, and responsive feedback. The project has two aims: (1) validate the multilevel model linking skills, climate, and detrimental research practices (DRPs), and (2) develop guidance, co-created with institutional leaders, to translate findings into improvements in research climates. By combining empirical modeling, validated assessment tools, and scalable digital infrastructure, the project supports systemic, sustainable enhancements in research integrity.
Institution: University of South Florida
PI: Amy Vargo, PhD
Funding Opportunity Number: IR-ORI-25-001
Project Title: Research Accountability and Integrity for sustainable Ethics in AI (R.A.I.S.E.): A Mixed-Methods Study of Faculty Practices and Institutional Responses
Abstract:
As AI transforms research, it raises urgent ethical challenges affecting authorship, transparency, disclosure, and fairness, while institutional policies often lag behind adoption. This project uses a mixed-methods study at R1 universities, beginning with a confidential survey of social science faculty to assess AI usage, ethical concerns, and awareness of guidance, followed by in-depth interviews with administrators, IRB personnel, and research oversight staff to explore institutional policies and responses. Data will be analyzed using latent class and thematic methods to identify trends and policy gaps. Findings will inform practical guidance and a pilot training module for integration into RCR programs and faculty onboarding, with dissemination via publications, webinars, and an open-access toolkit, supporting ORI’s mission to strengthen research integrity.
