DISCLAIMER:

If there is a discrepancy between this electronic policy and the written copy held by the Policy owner, the written copy prevails.

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Research involving human participants is premised on a fundamental moral commitment to advancing human welfare, knowledge and understanding and to examining cultural dynamics.  As a research intensive institution, McMaster University shares this commitment in its promotion of responsible research.

The fundamental imperative of research involving human participation is respect for human dignity and well-being.  To this end, the University endorses the ethical principles cited in the Tri-Council Policy Statement: Ethical Conduct for Research Involving Humans (1998), and any subsequent revisions thereto, and has mandated its Research Ethics Boards (REBs) to ensure that all research investigations involving human participants are in compliance with the Statement.  The REBs shall establish appropriate administrative policies and procedures to implement this policy.

This policy applies to funded and non-funded research investigations involving human participants (including procedures such as interviews, questionnaires and observations on individuals or groups) carried out on or off campus by McMaster University faculty staff, graduate students, undergraduate students and to anyone conducting research at or under the auspices of the University

The University is committed, through its Research Ethics Boards, to assisting the research community in identifying and addressing ethical issues inherent in its research, recognizing that all members of the University share a commitment to maintaining the highest possible standards in research involving humans.

 Approved by Senate - November 6, 2002
Approved by Board of Governors - December 12, 2002

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Contact Department:Office of Research Services

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MUFA - pdk
August 2007