For all individuals engaged in research at RUSH University Medical Center, comprehensive training is not just recommended—it’s a requirement. Governed by the Education Policy for Investigators and Relevant Research Personnel, accessible via PolicyTech, the Research Onboarding Learning Program (ROLP) is the foundational step in your research journey at RUSH. Successful completion of ROLP is your gateway to the Rush Research Portal (RRP), providing essential resources and tools for your work. The Rush Learning Hub serves as the central platform to access and complete this crucial onboarding, ensuring all researchers are equipped for excellence and compliance.
Accessing the Rush Research Portal: Your Training Pathway
Gaining access to the Rush Research Portal is a straightforward process, initiated through the Rush Learning Hub. Here’s how you can get started:
- Self-Register via the Rush Learning Hub: Begin by enrolling in the Research Onboarding Learning Program directly through the RUSH Learning Hub. This user-friendly platform is your starting point for all required research training.
- Complete the ROLP Curriculum: The Research Onboarding Learning Program consists of nine essential courses. Completing all modules within the Rush Learning Hub is mandatory to proceed.
- Submit Your RRP Access Request: Upon successful completion of the ROLP within the Rush Learning Hub, you will receive an email containing the RRP New Account Request Form. Submit this form to formally request your portal access.
- Login and Explore: Once your access is granted, you can log in to the RRP using your RUSH credentials and begin utilizing the portal’s resources.
For more detailed information on getting started and navigating the Rush Research Portal, click here: Getting Started.
For any questions or assistance regarding the Rush Research Portal access or the training program, please reach out to the dedicated RRP Team.
Beyond ROLP: Essential Training via CITI Program
In addition to the foundational ROLP offered through the Rush Learning Hub, Rush University Medical Center mandates core training via the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) Program.
Basic CITI Coursework: The specific CITI training requirements are dependent on your funding source and the nature of your research. Foundational research education, relevant to your research category, must be completed before research activities commence. CITI certifications are valid for three years and require renewal thereafter, unless specified otherwise. Access the CITI Program training modules here: www.citiprogram.org. For step-by-step guidance on CITI registration, please refer to this document: CITI Registration Instructions.
Conflict of Interest (COI) Training: Ensuring Research Integrity
Rush University Medical Center, in alignment with Public Health Service (PHS) guidelines, mandates Conflict of Interest (COI) education for all researchers. While CITI Program offers COI training for non-federally funded research (PHS), Principal Investigators and key personnel are required to complete Rush-specific Financial Conflict of Interest (FCOI) training via the Rush Learning Hub.
The Rush Learning Hub hosts a dedicated tutorial covering Rush’s COI policy and federal FCOI requirements as outlined in 42 CFR Part 50 Subpart F. This module, titled “FCOI-Promoting Objectivity,” takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. Access it directly or browse the Course Library at learninghub.rush.edu. Detailed instructions are available here: Learning Hub FCOI Module Instructions.
Remember to record your training completion date for future reference and to provide proof of completion to the Rush Sponsored Program Administration (SPA) Office. Additional COI resources are available in the Education and Training section of the COI website.
ICH Good Clinical Practice (GCP): Maintaining Clinical Trial Standards
The International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) Good Clinical Practice (GCP) E6 guidelines are crucial for upholding clinical trial compliance. Since September 16, 2016, the NIH mandates GCP training for all externally funded clinical trials.
ICH/GCP training encompasses study implementation, data management, monitoring, reporting, and the responsibilities of Institutional Review Boards (IRBs), investigators, sponsors, and monitors. Investigators and staff involved in clinical trial conduct, oversight, or management must receive ICH/GCP education, primarily offered through CITI (citiprogram.org). GCP certification needs to be renewed every three years.
For ICH GCP E6 Certification, often required by sponsors, complete all modules within these CITI courses:
- GCP for Clinical Trials with Investigational Drugs and Biologics (ICH Focus)
- GCP for Clinical Trials with Investigational Drugs and Medical Devices (US FDA Focus)
Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR): Upholding Research Integrity
Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) education is vital for maintaining research integrity. Tiffany Bailey, Rush’s RCR coordinator ([email protected]), can assist with coordinating RCR training. The NIH mandates RCR instruction for:
- Trainees
- Fellows
- Participants
- Scholars
Supported by NIH education grants (K grants), career development awards (T awards), research education grants, and dissertation research grants. CITI (citiprogram.org) provides the core elements of RCR training, followed by required didactic education sessions coordinated through the Office of Research Compliance. Further details and a comprehensive list of relevant grants & awards are available at NOT-OD-10-109.
Animal Use and Protections: Ethical Animal Research
The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) mandates training for research personnel with animal contact. Refer to Rush’s policy CC-RC-0004 or contact the Comparative Research Center (CRC) at (312) 942-6576 for details on required animal use and protection education.
By leveraging the Rush Learning Hub and associated training programs, RUSH University Medical Center ensures a robust and compliant research environment, empowering its researchers for success.
