Advancing ethical research through a culture of compliance
At Arizona State University, research is more than discovery — it is a public trust. ASU is committed to cultivating a culture of compliance that supports ethical, transparent and responsible research practices across all disciplines.
Our commitment goes beyond meeting regulatory requirements; it reflects our belief that integrity is essential to meaningful scholarship, societal impact and global leadership in research.
What is a culture of compliance?
A culture of compliance reflects shared values and behaviors that prioritize ethical decision-making, personal accountability, and a proactive approach to upholding laws, policies and professional standards in research.
This culture at ASU is rooted in the principles of:
- Honesty
- Transparency
- Responsibility
- Objectivity
- Respect
- Accountability
- Consistency
- Verification
These values guide every phase of the research process — from proposal development to publication and beyond.
Do we have a Title VI Action Plan?
Title VI Action Plan: this plan reviews ASU’s commitment to comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin (including shared ancestry and ethnic characteristics).
1. Coordinator
ASU shall have a dedicated Title VI Coordinator.
2. Policy Statement
ASU prohibits discrimination in any program or activity based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or any other protected status. ASU shall maintain a policy prohibiting discrimination, including harassment. ASU policy shall be listed in this action plan.
3. Grievance Procedures
ASU maintains a grievance process, allowing the ASU community the opportunity to file reports/complaints so that they can be investigated. Grievance procedures shall be listed in this action plan.
- P20: Prohibition Against Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation: Report and Investigation Procedure.
- ·P20a: Interim Grievance Process for Formal Complaints of Title IX Sexual Harassment.
- Student Code of Conduct Procedures.
4. Reporting
ASU accepts reports/complaints of discrimination.
- Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against may file a report/complaint with the University Rights and Responsibilities Office ([email protected]), the Dean of Students Office ([email protected]) or report anonymously to the ASU Hotline.
- Reports/Complaints can be submitted in writing, by phone, or in person.
Research compliance and ethics topics
ASU maintains high standards for research integrity through policies and guidance on key ethical, legal and professional topics. Explore the areas linked on the lefthand side to understand your responsibilities and access resources:
Combating trafficking in persons
Code of business conduct and ethics
Antitrust and fair competition responsible conduct of research (RCR)