What action must the institution take if notified by USDA of an investigation?

When an institution is notified by the USDA of an investigation, it is crucial for them to notify the Component headquarters. This action is important because it ensures that the appropriate personnel within the institution are informed and can take necessary steps to respond to the situation.

Proper communication with the headquarters allows for coordinated efforts, compliance with regulatory requirements, and the assessment of the necessary resources needed to address the investigation. This internal notification is also vital for maintaining oversight and transparency throughout the investigation process.

While halting all research activities might seem like a reasonable precaution, it is not a mandatory action unless specified by regulatory authorities. Sending a representative to the USDA could be a subsequent step, but it would depend on the nature of the investigation and the institutional protocols. Lastly, submitting annual reports immediately is not typically required in response to an investigation; timelines for such reports are usually established by regulations and are not adjusted simply because of an investigation notice.