Who is required to disclose significant financial conflicts of interest according to PHS regulations?

The researcher is required to disclose significant financial conflicts of interest according to PHS (Public Health Service) regulations because they have a direct responsibility for the design, conduct, or reporting of research. This obligation is rooted in the principle that transparency is essential for maintaining integrity in research. Researchers must provide disclosure of any financial interests that could potentially influence their research outcomes, ensuring that any biases are identified and managed appropriately.

This requirement helps uphold the ethical standards of research and protects the trust of the public and the scientific community in the findings produced. The focus is specifically on researchers because they may influence the integrity of the research process through their decisions and actions, thereby necessitating their disclosure of any conflicts that may affect their responsibilities.