However, at any time, the Federal agency may proceed with its own inquiry or investigation. After reviewing the record of the investigation, the institution s recommendations to the institution s adjudicating official, and any corrective actions taken by the research institution, the agency will take additional oversight or investigative steps if necessary. Upon completion of its review, the agency will take appropriate administrative action in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, or policies. When the agency has made a final determination, it will notify the subject of the allegation of the outcome and inform the institution regarding its disposition of the case. The agency finding of research misconduct and agency administrative actions can be appealed pursuant to the agency s applicable procedures.
Adjudication is separated organizationally from inquiry and investigation.
Likewise, appeals are separated organizationally from inquiry and investigation. When a research institution completes the adjudication phase, it will forward the adjudicating official s decision and notify the agency of any corrective actions taken or planned. A lead agency should be designated to coordinate responses to allegations of research misconduct when more than one agency is involved in funding activities relevant to the allegation. Each agency may implement administrative actions in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, policies, or contractual procedures. The following guidelines are provided to assist agencies and research institutions in developing fair and timely procedures for responding to allegations of research misconduct.