The entity that normally determines whether an academic researcher's conflict of interest can be managed is?

The entity that usually determines how to manage a researcher’s conflict of interest is the conflict of interest committee. This committee is typically made up of individuals who are trained to identify, evaluate, and manage conflicts of interest effectively to ensure that research integrity and ethical standards are upheld. They carefully assess the specific circumstances surrounding the potential conflict and recommend appropriate management strategies, which might include disclosures or modifications to the research process to mitigate any potential bias.

In contrast, the faculty senate, while potentially involved in some oversight functions, does not usually handle individual cases of conflict of interest. The researcher themselves may identify a potential conflict, but they do not have the authority to unilaterally decide how it should be managed. Similarly, while the university president holds a significant position within the institution, it is typically the conflict of interest committee that is tasked with the direct evaluation and management of conflicts rather than the president making that determination personally. This separation helps maintain objectivity and ensures that decisions are made based on established policies and ethical guidelines rather than personal judgment.