THE UNIVERSITY OF DERBY
University Research Ethics Committee
Constitution
Overall remit
The University Research Ethics Committee is responsible for the oversight of all matters relating
to the prior ethical consideration of research undertaken at the University of Derby. Its purpose is
to ensure that investigations are progressive whilst not damaging the Institution or the interests of
individuals who are participant to, or the subject of, such research. Specifically its role is to ensure
that the University “Research Ethics Policy and Code of Practice” is applied across the University.
This relates to research activities undertaken by all staff, and students pursuing undergraduate
(UG), postgraduate taught (PGT), postgraduate research (PGR) or postgraduate professional
(PGP) awards or by a visiting research worker. It is required to monitor and support the activities
of the Subject Research Ethics Committees in their delivery of the Ethics Policy and Code of
Practice.
The University Research Ethics Committee is expected to liaise with Faculty Research and
Research Degree Committees, Faculty Quality Enhancement Committees and with NHS Local &
Regional Ethics Committees. The Committee is accountable to the University Research and
Research Degrees Committee. It is expected to advise academic board on issues associated with
research ethics, and advise on the implications of national developments for research governance
at the University.
Terms of reference
The University Research Ethics Committee is responsible for the following:
Decision making powers
1.
Approve the ethical aspects of specific individual applications for research projects which
have been referred to the Sub-Committee by Faculty Research and Research Degree
Committees from the Subject Research Ethics Committees.
2.
Investigate and resolve alleged breaches of University Research Ethics Policy and Code
of Practice.
Other responsibilities:
3.
Review minutes of meetings from Subject Research Ethics Committees and other
Committees where ‘ethics’ are considered as a standing agenda item.
4.
Formulate and recommend ethical policy and procedures for the approval of the ethical
aspects of research projects conducted by staff and students of the University.
5.
Undertake annual monitoring of the implementation and embedding of the University
Research Ethics Policy and Code of Practice and recommend revisions as necessary.
6.
Ensure that there is clear web-based guidance and learning information on University of
Derby policy and procedures for staff and students.
7.
Consult with other relevant University Committees and external ethics bodies and advise
URRDC on further developments in ethical policy and procedures.
8.
Liaise with NHS Local and Regional Ethics Committees as appropriate.
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June 2011
9.
Recommend appropriate training opportunities for staff and students of the University to
the relevant University Committee.
10.
Report regularly to the University Research and Research Degrees Committee.
Composition
1.
Chair: appointed by Academic Board following recommendation from URRDC
2.
Two representatives, nominated by the Dean or Director from:
3.

Faculty of Education, Health and Sciences

Faculty of Arts, Design and Technology

Faculty of Business, Computing and Law

University of Derby, Buxton
One representative, nominated by the Dean or Director from:

University of Derby Corporate
4.
An external lay member with specialist expertise in ethical matters.
5.
Up to two co-options to provide complementary expertise and achieve an appropriate
balance of the background of members having regard for equal opportunities.
6.
A Secretary to the Sub-Committee nominated by the Research Office.
Quoracy
Quorum: 50% of the members plus one (excluding the Committee Secretary)
Attendance
A member of UREC may nominate a colleague to represent them on occasions they are unable to
attend.
PHB/PL 4th April 2008
UREC 9th May, 2011
URRDC 22nd June, 2011
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June 2011