[Code of Federal Regulations] [Title 45, Volume 3] [Revised as of October 1, 2002] From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access [CITE: 45CFR689.7] [Page 240] TITLE 45--PUBLIC WELFARE CHAPTER VI--NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION PART 689--RESEARCH MISCONDUCT--Table of Contents Sec. 689.7 Pending proposals and awards. (a) Upon learning of alleged research misconduct OIG will identify potentially implicated awards or proposals and when appropriate, will ensure that program, grant, and contracting officers handling them are informed (subject to Sec. 689.6(c)). (b) Neither a suspicion or allegation of research misconduct nor a pending inquiry or investigation will normally delay review of proposals. To avoid influencing reviews, reviewers or panelists will not be informed of allegations or of ongoing inquiries or investigations. However, if allegations, inquiries, or investigations have been rumored or publicized, the responsible Program Director may consult with OIG and, after further consultation with the Office of General Counsel, either defer review, inform reviewers to disregard the matter, or inform reviewers of the status of the matter.