How Conflicts are Managed

When a conflict of interest is identified, a management plan is implemented to reduce or mitigate risks to objectivity, integrity, and appropriate use of university resources.

Common management plan elements include:

• Separate off‑campus company workspace to prevent inappropriate use of university facilities for company activities
• No use of USU email, equipment, or supplies to maintain clear separation between university and company operations
• All company‑related funding routed through Sponsored Programs, where applicable, to ensure institutional oversight and compliance
• Disclosure of external relationships in publications and presentations to promote transparency and maintain public trust
• Independent project monitors, when needed, to provide objective oversight of research activities and decisions
• Co‑advisors for students, where appropriate, to reduce risks associated with supervisory conflicts and power imbalances

These measures help protect research objectivity, student welfare, institutional integrity, and public trust.