Why Ethics Approval Is Non-Negotiable
Research involving human participants without ethics approval cannot be published in reputable journals. Missing ethics documentation is grounds for immediate rejection or post-publication retraction.
Categories of Review
- Exempt: Minimal risk research. Quickest approval.
- Expedited: More than minimal risk but limited scope.
- Full board review: Higher risk (clinical trials, vulnerable populations).
Key Documents You Will Need
- Research protocol (aims, design, data protection)
- Informed consent form
- Data collection instruments
- Risk-benefit analysis
Informed Consent Essentials
Forms must explain: what the study involves, risks and benefits, the right to withdraw, how data will be stored, and contact details for complaints.