Federal funding agencies have implemented new training requirements for researchers and personnel working on federally sponsored projects. These mandatory trainings focus on research security and responsible conduct to ensure compliance with federal regulations and protect the integrity of U.S. research.
Who This Affects: All principal investigators, senior/key personnel, and team members participating in federally funded research projects must complete specific trainings based on their funding source and role.
Why This Matters: Completion of required trainings is mandatory for:
- Proposal submission eligibility
- Award activation and continuation
- Maintaining compliance with federal sponsor requirements
- Protecting research integrity and national security interests
Important Notes:
- Training requirements vary by agency and may change—check this page regularly for updates
- Most trainings are available through BuckeyeLearn, with RCR training delivered via CITI
- Some requirements apply before proposal submission, so plan accordingly
- Research teams should verify which trainings apply based on all active and pending funding sources
Action Required: Review the requirements below to identify which trainings apply to you and your team. Contact your department's research administrator or the Office of Sponsored Programs if you have questions about specific requirements or need assistance with training enrollment.
Updated: October 17, 2025
| Agency | Status | Who Must Complete | Training Title | Training Details | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NIH | Active 10/01/2025 | Senior/key personnel | Other Support | 11-minute NIH Other Support training course in BuckeyeLearn | Unclear/TBD |
| NIH | Rescinded | Senior/key personnel | Research Security | 1-hour research security training course in BuckeyeLearn | TBD (rescinded) |
| DOE | Active 05/01/2025 | All individuals on new DOE proposals | Research Security | 1-hour research security training course in BuckeyeLearn | Within 1 year of proposal submission |
| USDA | Pending Clarification | Clarification pending | Research Security | Clarification pending | Within 1 year of proposal + annual recertification |
| NSF | Active 10/10/2025 | Senior/key personnel | Research Security | 1-hour research security training course in BuckeyeLearn | Within 12 months prior to proposal submission |
| NSF | Active 10/10/2025 | All individuals on NSF awards | RCR + Research Security |
Note: New topics added to RCR requirements | Every 4 years |