Learn More About Conflicts of Interest
External Professional Agreements
State of Maryland Ethics Law and COI Exemptions
Sunshine Act: CMS Open Payments Program
COI Resources
What is a Conflict of Interest?
Any circumstance where the personal, professional, financial, or other private interests of a person or institution compromise, have the potential to compromise or may be perceived as compromising the exercise of professional judgment or obligations. Common types of conflicts within academic research include financial conflicts of interest and conflicts of commitment.
Financial Conflicts of Interest
When the potential for the financial interests of the Investigator or their immediate family affects or has the appearance of affecting the design, conduct, or reporting of the research. Examples include holding equity or ownership in a company sponsoring the research or receipt of income from intellectual property held by the researcher.
Conflict of Commitment
When an investigator's external professional commitments conflict with their primary responsibilities to the institution, including when an investigator devotes extensive time to outside commitments that interfere with their ability to complete their responsibilities to the School of Medicine.
Still Need More Information?
For information about understanding the nuances of conflicts of interest, contact:
Joni Prasad, PhD
Conflict of Interest Officer, School of Medicine
Assistant Dean for Research Affairs
Assistant Professor, Department of Microbiology & Immunology
410-706-6353
jprasad@som.umaryland.edu