Research Policy & Compliance Areas

The following sections outline key research-related policies and resources maintained by Dominic Grace Public University (DGPU). These policies ensure ethical standards, regulatory compliance, and responsible conduct in all research activities across the university.

Human Subjects Research

The DGPU Institutional Review Board (IRB) operates under a comprehensive Standard Operating Policies Manual, which outlines procedures for obtaining informed consent, investigator responsibilities, protocol review, and the protection of research participants.

Animal Subjects Research

This section provides guidelines and standard operating procedures established by the DGPU Animal Care and Use Committee (ACUC) and the University Laboratory Animal Resources. These policies ensure the ethical and humane treatment of animals used in research and teaching.

Conflict of Interest in Research

DGPU’s Conflict of Interest Policy outlines the framework for identifying, evaluating, and managing financial or personal interests that could compromise—or appear to compromise—the objectivity of research activities.

Sponsored Research Policies

A comprehensive set of online resources is available to support externally funded research. These include the Sponsored Projects Handbook, policies related to research finance and sponsor relations, and relevant federal guidelines (e.g., OMB Circulars).

Postdoctoral Fellow Policies

Resources include official DGPU policies governing postdoctoral fellowships, including the appointment of foreign nationals under the postdoctoral trainee program. These policies address roles, responsibilities, benefits, and compliance expectations.

Environmental Health & Radiation Safety

This section includes policies and protocols covering:

• Biological safety

• Chemical and hazardous waste management

• Laboratory safety

• Laser safety

• Radiation protection

• General workplace safety

These policies are designed to protect researchers, staff, students, and the environment.

Research Misconduct

DGPU maintains robust and transparent policies for addressing research misconduct. These policies apply to both faculty and non-faculty members of the research community and outline procedures for reporting, investigating, and resolving allegations.

Patents and Intellectual Property

DGPU’s Patent and Tangible Research Property Policy governs the ownership, protection, and commercialization of intellectual property created by faculty, staff, students, and guest scholars. This policy supports innovation while safeguarding institutional and individual rights.