Committee

The Role of the Human Research Ethics Committee

The Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) is responsible for ensuring that all Murdoch University research involving human participants complies with State and Federal Government standards and is conducted with the highest possible ethical integrity.

An important guiding principle for the HREC is to enhance and maintain Murdoch University's reputation for research excellence.

Research Quality
Under the "National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Research involving Humans" the HREC is responsible for ensuring that planned research is of high quality and integrity.

Protection
The HREC works to protect research participants and the community at large. The Committee also protects the reputation of Murdoch University and Murdoch researchers.

Advice
The HREC provides a resource for researchers by commenting on a project from a variety of perspectives. The HREC often suggests ways in which projects may be modified to improve the research and to prevent possible difficulties.

Complaints Resolution
In rare cases there may be a complaint about a research project. Participants, researchers or members of the public who are unhappy with the conduct of a project are encouraged to contact the Research Ethics Office.

Composition of the HREC
The HREC consists of a minimum of 8 members comprising:

1. a chairperson, with suitable experience.
2. at least two lay people, one man and one woman, who have no affiliation with Murdoch University, and do not currently engage in medical, scientific, legal or academic work.
3. at least one person with knowledge of, and current experience in, the professional care, counseling or treatment of people
4. at least one person who performs a pastoral care role in a community (e.g. Minster of Religion or Aboriginal Elder ).
5. at least one lawyer.
6. at least two people with current research experience that is relevant to research proposals to be considered at the meetings.

Click here to view the current Committee Members.

HREC Meeting and Agenda dates for 2008.