Research Ethics Board

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We ensure that such research meets the highest scientific and ethical standards to protect patients, investigators and the institution.

The Board is responsible for approving and monitoring an estimated 350 new studies involving human subjects each year. We also monitor ongoing studies lasting in excess of one year.

Overarching principles of ethical review 

Ethics are principles of conduct guiding “what ought to be done”. In the context of the Tri-Council Policy Statement 2, the REB subscribes to following ethical principles that are commonly held and valued by diverse research disciplines:

Respect for Persons, which recognizes the intrinsic value of human beings and the respect and consideration that they are due. It considers how people of all ages are treated as research participants, incorporates the moral obligations to respect autonomy, and protects those with developing, impaired or diminished autonomy.

Concern for Welfare, which considers the impact on individuals of factors including physical, mental and spiritual health, as well as their physical, economic and social circumstance. It encompasses factors including privacy and control of information about the person and the assessment of foreseeable risks and benefits, as well as the treatment of data and human biological materials according to the free, informed and ongoing consent of the person who was the source of the information and materials.

Justice, which recognizes the obligation to treat people fairly and equitably. All research involving human subjects within Mount Sinai Hospital (MSH) requires approval of the MSH Research Ethics Board prior to the initiation of a research project. The MSH REB has similar responsibility for investigators from other institutions who may wish to carry out research on Mount Sinai Hospital premises or with Mount Sinai Hospital patients. 

Is it research?

If an investigator cannot determine whether an intended investigation constitutes research (for instance, quality assurance/improvement projects do not constitute research), the investigator should approach the Research Ethics Board office for a determination. 

For determinations related to quality assurance or quality improvement projects, please complete the Screening Determination Form (PDF) and submit it via email.