In addition to issues controlled by the Panels, much of the research carried out at Stanford involves equipment, chemicals or other materials which can be dangerous if not handled properly. Stanford's program to assure a safe environment includes training, reporting, inspections, corrective actions and record-keeping. An overview 3. Any activities that could compromise the integrity of research results are, of course, prohibited at Stanford. Stanford complies fully with requirements related to the reporting and investigation of alleged fabrication, falsification, plagiarism or other scientific misconduct .
Conflicts of interest can also compromise research objectivity.
Conflicts can arise whenever someone's personal or financial interests appear to be in conflict with the goals of the University. While Stanford's role in the genesis of many successful new companies is evidence of strong belief in technology transfer, it is also fertile ground for potential conflicts. At Stanford, faculty must disclose their outside interests annually to their School Dean. When seeking funding for their work, they must also disclose any potential conflicts related to that funding. The topic of conflicts of interest overlaps the discussion of project funding, the next subject in this overview.