Ethical Considerations Policy
1. Purpose
1.1 The Ethical Considerations Policy outlines the principles and guidelines for conducting research with integrity, transparency, and respect for ethical standards.
1.2 It aims to ensure that all research activities conducted under the purview of the Research Advisory Committee and IRB shall adhere to the highest ethical standards, protect the rights and welfare of research participants, and promote the responsible conduct of research.
2. Scope
2.1 This policy applies to all research projects and activities conducted under the auspices of the Research Advisory Committee, including faculty members, students, and collaborating researchers.
3. Ethical Guidelines
3.1 Respect for Autonomy and Informed Consent:
3.1.1 Researchers must respect the autonomy and dignity of research participants, ensuring their voluntary participation in research activities.
3.1.2 Informed consent should be obtained from all participants, providing clear and understandable information about the research purpose, procedures, risks, benefits, and their right to withdraw without penalty.
3.2 Beneficence and Non-Maleficence:
3.2.1 Researchers must prioritize the well-being, safety, and welfare of research participants.
3.2.2 Research protocols should minimize risks and potential harms to participants while maximizing potential benefits.
3.2.3 Steps should be taken to ensure appropriate monitoring and management of any adverse events that may occur during the research process.
3.3 Justice and Equity:
3.3.1 Researchers should ensure fairness in the selection and recruitment of research participants, avoiding any form of discrimination or bias.
3.3.2 The benefits and burdens of research should be distributed equitably among participants and society.
3.4 Privacy and Confidentiality:
3.4.1 Researchers must protect the privacy and confidentiality of research participants' personal information.
3.4.2 Measures should be implemented to safeguard participant data during data collection, storage, analysis, and dissemination.
3.5 Scientific Integrity:
3.5.1 Researchers should uphold the principles of scientific integrity, including honesty, accuracy, transparency, and objectivity.
3.5.2 Fabrication, falsification, or plagiarism in research activities is strictly prohibited.
3.6 Animal Welfare (Where applicable):
3.6.1 Researchers working with animals must adhere to relevant ethical guidelines and regulations for animal care, use, and treatment.
3.6.2 Research involving animals should prioritize their welfare and minimize potential suffering or harm.
3.7 Institutional Review Board
3.7.1 The Research Advisory Committee shall establish an IRB to provide ethical review and oversight of research activities involving human participants or animals.
3.7.2 All research proposals must undergo ethical review and receive approval from the IRB before commencing.
3.8 Reporting Ethical Concerns
3.8.1 Any concerns or violations regarding ethical considerations should be reported promptly to the IRB for appropriate investigation and resolution.
3.9 Compliance and Monitoring
3.9.1 The Research Advisory Committee shall ensure compliance with this Ethical Considerations Policy through regular monitoring, audits, and training programs.
3.9.2 Non-compliance with ethical guidelines may result in disciplinary actions and sanctions.
3.10 Review and Updates
3.10.1 This Ethical Considerations Policy shall be reviewed every three years, updated, and communicated to all relevant stakeholders to reflect changes in ethical guidelines, regulations, and best practices.