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Updates to HRPP Manual Section 10-1, Conflict of Interest

June 30, 2026

HRPP Manual 10-1, Conflict of Interest (COI), has been updated to align with the BOT 414: Conflict of Interest and Conflict of Commitment (COI/COC) Identification and Disclosure Policy

In 2025, the BOT 414: Conflict of Interest and Conflict of Commitment (COI/COC) Identification and Disclosure Policy replaced the previous Conflicts of Interest, Faculty/Academic Staff policy. Because HRPP Manual 10-1, COI, relied on definitions and processes described in the Conflicts of Interest, Faculty/Academic Staff policy, updates were needed for consistency.

The following definitions have been revised to reflect those in the BOT 414: Conflict of Interest and Conflict of Commitment (COI/COC) Identification and Disclosure Policy:

  • Immediate family member
  • Individual conflict of interest
  • Financial interest
  • Financial conflict of interest (FCOI) in research
  • Significant financial interest

In addition, HRPP Manual 10-1, COI, has been expanded to clarify COI review processes for studies reviewed as exempt or by an External IRB. Previously, these processes were not directly addressed.

As a reminder, if a potential conflict of interest arises after:

  1. MSU IRB approval
  2. Release of an MSU HRPP acknowledgement letter for reliance on an External IRB
  3. MSU HRPP exempt determination

then the individual with the interest must promptly report its details as required by the BOT 414: Conflict of Interest and Conflict of Commitment (COI/COC) Identification and Disclosure Policy. The individual must also notify the MSU Human Research Protection Program (HRPP) through a modification or update to the study addressing the conflict of interest.

If you have any questions, please contact irb@msu.edu.