In pursuit of its mission to support research and to foster relationships with research entities locally and abroad, the Office of the CRO values transparency regarding financial interests that may exist between researchers and sponsors/businesses. To prevent the appearance of compromise, all researchers working with external bodies are required to complete the AUS Conflict of Interest disclosure at the time of research proposal. Existing conflicts are then mitigated, ensuring no compromise or professional bias in judgment or objectivity regarding the design, conduct or reporting of research activities.