INBRE Student Obligations

All students funded through Idaho INBRE, regardless of institution, are expected to meet the obligations outlined below.

1. Complete CITI Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) Training

☐ Go to the CITI Program website

☐ Login using your institution’s affiliation

☐ Enroll in the Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) Basic Course

If your institution is not affiliated with CITI, you may complete the training under the University of Idaho. Contact Ashley (ashley@uidaho.edu) for questions. 

☐ Complete all required modules; pass each module

☐ Download your completion certificate

☐ Submit the certificate to your INBRE Campus Leader and/or Student Coordinator.

☐ Ideally, complete this before your research project begins

2. Complete Your eRA Commons ID profile

☐ Your INBRE Campus Leader or Student Coordinator will:

• • Contact your Institution’s eRA Commons Signing Official (SO) or Account Administrator (AA) and request creation of an eRA Commons ID (you cannot create one yourself)
  • Provide your Full legal name, Institutional email, and Role (e.g., “Undergraduate Student”) to the SO for creation of your eRA Commons ID
  • Enter this eRA Commons ID on your profile in INBRE’s online reporting system (Piestar)

☐ Once created, activate your account using the email instructions provided to you

☐ Log in and complete your Personal Profile:

• • Contact information
  • Education history
  • Demographic information (optional but encouraged)
    

You’re Done!

 

Why CITI RCR Training Is Required for INBRE Undergraduate Research Students

Completion of CITI Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) training is a requirement of the NIH INBRE grant that funds our student research programs. This training ensures all INBRE students begin their research with a strong grounding in ethical standards, data integrity, authorship practices, and the responsible conduct expected by the National Institutes of Health. By completing RCR training, students demonstrate their commitment to conducting research that meets the highest level of integrity and complies with federal funding expectations.

What is an eRA Commons ID?

An eRA Commons ID is a unique username issued through the NIH’s electronic Research Administration (eRA) system. It allows students, faculty, and institutions to access NIH online services, track grant-related activities, and be officially recognized in NIH systems.

Why INBRE Students Need an eRA Commons ID

Participants in the NIH INBRE program are required to have an eRA Commons ID because NIH uses this identifier to:

• Document student participation in NIH‑funded training and research programs
• Track research outcomes, such as publications or future grant involvement
• Ensure compliance with federal reporting requirements for training and workforce development programs

Having an eRA Commons ID allows INBRE to accurately report student involvement and helps NIH evaluate the long‑term impact of its investment in undergraduate research.