Research Governance


Research Governance can be defined as the regulations, principles and standards of good practice that are in place to achieve, and continuously improve, excellence in the quality of research.
 
Research Governance applies to everyone connected to research including Chief Investigators, Principal Investigators, Care Professionals, Researchers, their employers and support staff.
 

Why has Research Governance developed?

 

Research Governance is needed to:
  • Safeguard participants in research
  • Protect researchers/investigators (by providing a clear framework to work within)
  • Enhance ethical and scientific quality
  • Minimise risk
  • Monitor practice and performance
  • Promote good practice and ensure lessons are learn

 

The Research Governance Framework

 

The Research Governance Framework for Health and Social Care was first published in October 2001 by the Department of Health with full compliance being required by 1 April 2004. The Chief Scientist Office (CSO) published the first edition of the Link opens in new windowResearch Governance Framework for Health and Community Care in Scotland in 2001. This was updated to the Link opens in new windowsecond edition (2006) to ensure consistency with the Link opens in new windowMedicines for Human Use (Clinical Trials) Regulations 2004. Knowledge of the framework is essential for all staff involved in clinical research. The Framework defines standards for ethics, science, information, health and safety, finance and a quality research culture and sets out responsibilities for all those who participate in, host, fund, manage and undertake research.