The REB oversees all research involving human participants conducted under the auspices of Women's College Hospital to ensure that such research meets the highest scientific and ethical standards in order to protect patients, investigators and the institution.

The REB is responsible for approving and monitoring new studies initiated each year involving human participants as well as monitoring ongoing studies that last more than one year.

Overarching Principles of Ethical Review

Ethics are principles of right conduct guiding "what ought to be done."

In the context of the Tri-Council Policy Statement: Guidelines on Research Involving Humans, the REB subscribes to the following ethical principles that are commonly held and valued by diverse research disciplines:

• respect for human dignity
• respect for free and informed consent
• respect for vulnerable persons
• respect for privacy and confidentiality
• respect for justice and inclusiveness
• balancing harms and benefits

All research involving human participants within or on behalf of Women's College Hospital requires approval of the REB prior to the initiation of a research project. The REB has similar responsibility for investigators from other institutions who may wish to carry out research on WCH premises or with WCH patients.

In the event that an investigator cannot determine whether an intended investigation constitutes research, the investigator should contact the Research Ethics Board office to discuss the issue. Providing such consultation on ethics matters is part of the responsibility of the board.

Use the links below to learn more about the REB and the process of applying for an ethical review at Women's College Hospital.