University Creates Office of Research Compliance

As a response to increasing federal requirements on the conduct of research, the University of Arkansas has established an office of research compliance. According to Jim Rankin, vice provost for research and economic development, the new office will be responsible for conflict of interest, export control, responsible conduct of research, human subjects, and animal use protocols. The office will also work with university committees and the office of environmental health and safety on concerns related to radiation, biological and toxic substance safety. Research compliance functions were previously integrated into the duties of the office of research support and sponsored programs.

Rosemary Ruff, current director of research support and sponsored programs, will be the director of the office of research compliance. Ruff has valuable experience in research administration and has served as a senior research administrator at the University of Alaska-Fairbanks and Auburn University before coming to the University of Arkansas. She brings a wealth of knowledge related to the federal regulations that pertain to research compliance. In addition, she has worked with all the research compliance committees and is very familiar with the university offices that support compliance.

Dennis Brewer will be the new director of research support and sponsored programs. He is currently the associate vice-provost for research and economic development and a professor of mathematical sciences. As a faculty member at the University of Arkansas, he has a great appreciation for faculty research and how the office can facilitate that research. Brewer previously served as chair of computer science department, associate head of computer science and computer engineering, and chair of the Faculty Senate. He will be full-time in the office of research and economic development and serve as both associate vice-provost and director of research support and sponsored programs.

The new office organization will become official on Jan. 1, 2011.