Why RECR Training Matters
Syracuse University is committed to fostering a research environment grounded in integrity, transparency, and ethical practices. Federal sponsors such as NSF, NIH, and USDA–NIFA require education in the Responsible and Ethical Conduct of Research (RECR). Our program ensures compliance with these requirements while promoting best practices across all disciplines.
Who Must Complete RECR Training?
Syracuse University’s RECR training plan requires RECR training for all individuals supported on NSF, NIH, or USDA–NIFA funds, including:
- Faculty, senior/key personnel, and research staff
- Undergraduate researchers
- Graduate students
- Postdoctoral scholars
Syracuse University also strongly encourages all researchers—regardless of funding source—to complete RECR training as part of our commitment to research integrity
Core Topics Covered
- Research Misconduct (fabrication, falsification, plagiarism)
- Data Management and Sharing
- Authorship & Publication Ethics
- Peer Review Responsibilities
- Conflicts of Interest and Commitment
- Mentor/Trainee Responsibilities
- Human Subjects and Animal Welfare
- Collaborative Research
- Laboratory Safety (biosafety, chemical safety)
- Science in Society and Social Responsibility
- Emerging Topics: Rigor & Reproducibility, Open Science, Research Security, Generative AI in Research
Training Requirements by Researcher Type
Undergraduate Researchers
- Complete discipline-appropriate CITI RECR online modules within 90 days of appointment
- Complete 4 hours of formal or informal RECR training during the first semester
Graduate Students
- Option 1: CITI RECR training bundle + four (4) hours of attending formal/informal training
- Option 2: Eight (8) hours of attending formal/informal training
Postdoctoral Scholars / Senior Staff / Principal Investigators
- Option 1: CITI RECR training bundle + Four (4) hours of attending or leading formal/informal training
- Option 2: Eight (8) hours of attending or leading formal/informal training (Must be completed within 6 months and repeated every 4 years)
Modes of Instruction
- Online Training: CITI modules appropriate to discipline
- Formal Training: Case-based interactive workshops and seminars, scheduled by the Office of Research Services (ORS).
- Informal Training: Documented discussions within research teams (e.g., lab meetings, journal clubs)
Tracking & Compliance
ORS (Office of Research Services) maintains centralized records of RECR completion (CITI transcripts, seminar attendance, informal training forms). Principal Investigators are responsible for ensuring team compliance. Non-compliance may result in administrative holds on awards or salary transfers.
Questions?
Contact the Office of Research Services
✉ slmichae@syr.edu
PLEASE NOTE: The Responsible Conduct of Research (RECR) Training cannot be substituted for the CITI Human Subjects Training required for individuals involved in Human Subjects Research.