Ethics

The best site for information on animal and human research ethics is the Melbourne Research Office. Always discuss research ethics issues with your supervisor in the first instance.

Animal Ethics

The University takes its responsibility to animal welfare seriously, and through its Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) system strives to uphold and further best practice in animal-based science, while reflecting the expectations of the broader community. All proposed animal research is assessed with a particular emphasis on the 3Rs - Replacement, Reduction and Refinement. Our goal is to use animals only in well-designed and argued research and teaching projects.

You need animal ethics approval if you want to use live non-human vertebrates, cephalopods or adult decapod crustaceans (crabs, lobster and crayfish only) for the acquisition, development or demonstration of scientific knowledge or techniques. This definition covers the whole spectrum of research and teaching activity, from laboratory-based study to the observation and noting (without handling) of an animal's behaviour within its own habitat.

Contact the Melbourne Research Office for information on applications and management of approved projects.

Human Research Ethics

All research projects involving humans are subject to review and prior approval by The University of Melbourne Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC). Research involving human subjects cannot and must not proceed until clearance has been obtained.  The HREC has established sub-committees and Advisory Groups to review staff and student ethics applications.

You need human ethics approval if your University research involves humans or their tissue or data. Research activities requiring such approval include surveys, interviews, observational studies, administration of tests or stimuli, collection or use of human tissue, and clinical trials

Contact the Melbourne Research Office for information on applications and management of approved projects.