General Statement of Policy

ÐÓ°É’s role and mission is the betterment of humanity through advanced research in the natural sciences. The procurement of goods and services is a vital function in fulfilling the University’s mission and must be conducted in accordance with theÌýUniversity Code of ConductÌýand theÌýConflict of Interest Policy Governing Business Practices. All authorized officers, employees and agents involved directly or indirectly in the awarding and/or administration of University procurement contracts or in authorizing requisitions of goods or services are bound by the standards and requirements listed in theÌýCode of Conduct, theÌýConflict of Interest Policy Governing Business PracticesÌýas well as by all applicable laws and regulations.

Standards for ethical conduct are based primarily on the requirement for fair and impartial actions and assertions rather than on a negative series of prohibitions. Nevertheless, University policy specifically forbids the following practices:

  • Solicitation or acceptance of material gifts, gratuities, favors or payment, in cash or in kind, from present or potential vendors/contractors by any member of the University who is authorized to make decisions regarding award of contracts or approval of requisitions involving the vendors/contractors.
  • Solicitation or acceptance of gratuities or payment, in cash or in kind, or prejudicial discounts, or services from present or potential vendors/contractors by any member of the University that might influence, or appear to influence, purchasing decisions.
  • Participation by an officer, employee or purchasing agent in the selection, award, or administration of contracts where, to their knowledge, they or their immediate partner or family member, associate or organization has a financial interest, or is actively engaged in negotiating employment. Such participation is in direct violation of theÌýUniversity Code of ConductÌý²¹²Ô»åÌýConflict Of InterestÌý±è´Ç±ô¾±³¦²â.

 

Violators of this code of conduct will be subject to disciplinary action, as outlined in theÌýCode of Conduct. Improper conduct should be reported in accordance with theÌýUniversity Policy on Reporting Possible Violations of the Code of Conduct.

The following summarizes the procurement policies of ÐÓ°É. All officers, employees and agents of the University have a duty and responsibility to understand and comply with these policies. For more information regarding purchasing responsibilities, please see the Purchasing PolicyÌýPurchasing Responsibilities.

Questions about these policies should be directed to the Director of Materials Management & Chief Procurement Officer (CPO).