Responsible Conduct of Research for Postdocs
Why Training in the Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR)
Responsible conduct in research (RCR) broadly describes the awareness and application of established professional standards and ethical principles in the execution of research-related activities. Since the 1980s, the term RCR has also become associated with educational programs designed to teach graduate students and postdoctoral scholars about ethical practices associated with scientific investigation and developing scholarship with integrity. Over 500 members of our research community have participated as discussion facilitators since 2006.
To find up-to-date, general information about RCR requirements, please visit the Research website.
RCR Academic Course and BU Postdocs
BU offers Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) training to postdoctoral scholars and graduate students through an academic course offered every fall and spring semester – ENG EK800. Since we have postdocs who must complete formal, advanced RCR training as part of being part of NIH and NSF funded projects, postdocs may register for this course while not being BU students. Also, we typically offer these course sessions on the Charles River Campus in the fall semester and the Medical Campus in the Spring semester.
Participant Requirements
- RCR is offered in condensed sections, with two options in each semester. Participants choose ONE section or the other; individual sessions cannot be mixed-and-matched.
- RCR training requires eight (8) hours of IN PERSON instruction, therefore attendance is extremely important.
- Participants must be available for all class meetings in a section.
Upcoming Course Offerings
| TERM | SECTION | DAY | DATES | TIME | LOCATION |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FA 2026 | ENG EK800: A1 | Friday | Sept 4, Sept 11, Sept 18 | 9am-12:20pm | Charles River Campus |
| FA 2026 | ENG EK800: A2 | Thursday | Oct 22, Oct 29, Nov 5 | 1pm-4:20pm | Charles River Campus |
| SP 2027 | ENG EK800: A1 | Thursday | Jan 21, Jan 28, Feb 4 | 1pm-4:20pm | Medical Campus |
| SP 2027 | ENG EK800: A2 | Friday | March 19, March 26, April 2 | 9am-12:20pm | Medical Campus |
Registering for ENG EK800 as a BU Postdoc
Since postdocs are not BU students, those postdocs who are required to take the advanced RCR training (beyond CITI training) via our in-person course would need to contact Lauren Easterling (Graduate & Postdoctoral Success | Postdoctoral Affairs). Dr. Easterling will then connect you with the appropriate Registrar.