The Central University Research Ethics Committee (CUREC) have introduced a new application form specifically for research that involves ONLY the use of previously collected, biological samples (such as blood, urine, faeces and saliva) that are not identifiable to the researcher. This form is to be completed instead of the CUREC 1 form for low-risk research.
In order to be eligible to apply to CUREC for ethics approval for use of previously collected samples, applicants will need to:
- Be using only human samples that have been collected previously – any new sample collection or additional research needs to be applied for on a CUREC 1, 2 or 3 form, even where existing biological samples will be analysed as part of the research proposal
- Confirm that the person from whom the samples were taken cannot be identified by the researchers who will be using them
- Register the samples on one of the University’s Human Tissue licences, where the tissue is considered relevant material (i.e. contains cells)
- Submit a copy of the original participant information and consent to show that there is permission for the samples to be used in future research and, if appropriate, be transferred to the researchers
- Complete mandatory training for work with human samples