Research Ethics
All Network hospital and research partners, often referred to as “Sites”, are committed to the practice of clinical research at the highest scientific, ethical and clinical practice standards. Three internationally accepted ethical codes serve as Network benchmarks and they are:
Each participating site has joined the Network with its own history and experience in implementing clinical research. Regardless of their entry experience level, the Network, through the Network Coordinating Center, assists sites in setting up local operational policies and procedures; training sites and staff to better understand and apply the international benchmarks; and, supporting sites to achieve the highest levels of excellence. Research staff at sites who work directly with human patients for the Network’s studies received training on Protection of Human Subjects (Research Ethics) and ICH GCP before taking up their research related roles and responsibilities.
At study completion, sites can realize their hopes of becoming widely recognized for research excellence; publish their results in peer-reviewed academic journals; and, be well-placed for follow-on or other competitive funding opportunities.
The Clinical Trial Support Specialists (CTSSs) guide and facilitate learning and help sites in meeting these important international ethical and clinical research standards and are supported by the Network Coordinating Center. The CTSS serves as the direct link between sites and the Network in implementing the research protocol and the development of site capacity for conducting clinical research.