How does CITI Training address conflicts of interest?

CITI Training focuses on educating researchers about potential conflicts of interest and providing guidance on how to manage these conflicts effectively. This approach is vital because it ensures that researchers are aware of the various situations that can lead to conflicts and understand the importance of transparency and integrity in their work. Education about potential conflicts empowers researchers to recognize their own biases or interests that might influence their research outcomes and decisions.

Managing conflicts of interest is not about completely eliminating them, as conflicts can arise from a variety of legitimate sources. Instead, acknowledging and addressing these conflicts through education allows researchers to maintain ethical standards and uphold the credibility of their research. This best practice fosters a culture of accountability and ethical responsibility in the research community, which is essential for ensuring the validity of research findings and preserving public trust.