Conflict of Interest Program
COI Quick Links
Research Contacts
- Sally Kornbluth, Ph.D.
Vice Dean, Research
Email
919.613.8637
- Wesley G. Byerly, Pharm.D.
Associate Dean,
Research Support Services
Email
919.668.2579
The Duke University School of Medicine’s Research Integrity Office is dedicated to reviewing and managing research related personal and institutional conflicts of interest for the Schools of Medicine and Nursing. The Research Integrity Office’s mandate is to identify and manage conflicts of interest that may be created by a financial interest of an individual related to research.
An actual or potential conflict of interest is said to exist when a member of the university community has a relationship with an external organization such that his or her research activities within the university could be impacted by that relationship in a manner that might ultimately financially benefit the individual or a close family member. A conflict of interest may often be present though no improper conduct or unethical behavior has occurred.
Faculty members are required to submit a conflict of interest reporting form annually in February and to revise the form when a change of status occurs. The Research Integrity Office reviews forms to determine if a conflict of interest exists. Based on information provided in the form, the faculty member may be required to meet with the Research Integrity Office staff, be issued a management plan, and/or be scheduled to meet with the School of Medicine’s Conflict of Interest Committee. Any questions regarding conflicts of interest may be directed to the Research Integrity Office staff: (919) 684-6739 or (919) 684-6757.
Individual Conflict of Interest Policy 
– The Duke University School of Medicine issues this document to implement in the School of Medicine the STATEMENT OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST FOR FACULTY OF DUKE UNIVERSITY adopted by the Board of Trustees.
Frequently Asked Questions 
– Often, faculty and staff have similar questions regarding the conflict of interest process. This link provides answers to some general questions.
Conflict of Interest and Industry Relations 
- Duke University and the Duke University Health System have developed policies that address issues of potential or actual conflict of interest that may arise from relationships with industry that extend beyond research.
COI Admin 
- COI Admin is a password protected web site used by the Research Integrity Office and departmental COI liaisons to coordinate conflict of interest reporting forms. To view the site, one must be an authorized user.
Conflict of Interest Reporting Form 
– Annually in February, faculty are required to submit a conflict of interest reporting form electronically. This link will provide access to the form that may be used annually or when a change of status occurs.
SBIR/STTR -

The Duke University School of Medicine has approved a policy to address potential conflict of interest issues regarding National Institutes of Health-funded Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants.