The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has revised its financial conflict of interest requirements, effective Monday, August 17.

Under the new requirements, individuals identified as covered individuals on a funding opportunity must disclose any actual, apparent or potential conflicts of interest (COI) or conflicts of commitment (COC) at the proposal stage if the institution receives the award. Changes that occur after submission can be reported later.

What does this mean for Missouri S&T researchers?

• The university’s conflict of interest office will need to conduct a review of DOE proposals before sponsored programs administration submits them.
• This will require the principal investigator to submit an investigator form to the sponsored programs office including all covered individuals and statement of work in advance of the proposal deadline to allow time for review.
• More details will be available soon about this change in process.

The new requirements help DOE identify potential conflicts of interest and commitment, including those involving foreign governments or foreign government-controlled entities, before an award is made. Early disclosure allows DOE to evaluate whether identified conflicts can be mitigated, assess proposed project personnel, and reduce the risk of delays or barriers to award.Read the rule by the Department of Energy.