The IRB is the sole review board for conducting the reviews, followed by allowing the approval to conduct the research. It emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations, study design, expected outcomes, and benefits. The focus is promoting research collaborations, establishing strong linkages, and publishing monographs. The checklist and various IRB application forms ensure that the research meets the IRB approval criteria and emphasizes the proposed studies' significance and potential contributions. A draft of the IRB Handbook has also been prepared, a comprehensive guide for conducting research in a structured and ethical manner.
The Institutional Review Board (IRB) at Bahria University of Health Sciences, Karachi Campus, is a designated committee responsible for reviewing and approving biomedical, clinical, community-based, and behavioral research involving humans. The IRB ensures that research proposals adhere to scientific guidelines, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements. Its purpose is to protect the rights and welfare of human subjects participating in research studies. The IRB conducts risk-benefit analyses to determine whether research should proceed, promotes fully informed and voluntary participation, and seeks to maximize the safety of subjects. The expected outcome is the facilitation of high-quality, ethical research that contributes to the health sciences arena while ensuring the protection of human subjects.
The application process involves several steps. First, the Principal Investigator (PI) submits an electronic copy of the IRB Application Form and the research proposal. The IRB confirms receipt of the proposal within seven business days and communicates the decision to the PI regarding whether it is worth reviewing or completing all the documents. The proposal then undergoes technical review and is shared with experts on ethical, religious, and social aspects. If necessary, a specialist in bio-safety hazards also vets the proposal. The IRB Secretary collates all feedback, and the members deliberate before approving the research proposal. The decision is communicated within 21 business days, and it is final. The review and approval process includes categories such as full review, convened and expedited reviews, pharmaceutical trials, and research exemptions from IRB review. Full review is required for studies that do not meet exempt or expedited review criteria. Convened and expedited reviews are conducted for research involving minimal risk or minor changes to previously approved research. Pharmaceutical trials and good clinical practice are overseen according to international guidelines, and research exemptions from IRB review require formal approval through the IRB Chairman.
The IRB also conducts routine post-approval monitoring to oversee the progress of approved research and ensure compliance with regulations. The document emphasizes the ethical principles followed by the IRB, including protecting human subjects from physical or psychological harm and promoting fully informed and voluntary participation.
In summary, the IRB application process at Bahria University Medical and Dental College involves thorough review and approval procedures to ensure the protection of human subjects and compliance with ethical and regulatory standards.
Maj. Gen (Retd). Prof. Dr. Shehla Baqai, - Patron
Principal, Medical & Dean, HS
Prof. Dr. Inayat Hussain Thaver - Chairperson
HOD, CHS
Prof. Dr. Shazia Shakoor, - Vice Chairperson
HoD, Physiology
Prof. Dr. Shakeel Ahmed - Member
HOD, Pediatrics
Prof. Dr. Sajid Abbas Jaffri - Member
HOD, Medicine
Prof. Dr. Afsheen Maqsood - Member
Dept. of Oral Pathology
Dr. Quratulain Javaid - Member
Associate Professor Anatomy
Ms. Abida Razzaq - member & IRB Coordinator
Associate Professor
Pak. Navy Nursing College
Dr. Najmus Sahar - Member
HOD of General Education
The Research Advisory Committee (RAC) at Bahria University of Health Sciences is pivotal in guiding and supporting research endeavors in Health Sciences. The committee is responsible for providing strategic guidance on research priorities, developing and evaluating research proposals, identifying emerging trends and opportunities, fostering collaborations, and supporting capacity-building initiatives for researchers. Additionally, the RAC ensures the dissemination of research findings and provides recommendations for resource allocation and funding opportunities. Potential researchers are encouraged to seek the services of the RAC for expert advice, guidance, and support in navigating the research landscape, ensuring scientific rigor, ethical considerations, and alignment with organizational goals. The committee's commitment to transparency, integrity, and adherence to ethical standards makes it an invaluable resource for researchers seeking to make a meaningful impact in Health Sciences.
The Student Research Forum (SRF) was established in 2019 to encourage medical students to engage in research activities and contribute valuable knowledge to the health community on local, regional, and global scales. SRF aims to develop a research capacity among medical undergraduates and allow them to conduct in-depth original studies on topics of interest. By participating in SRF, students can address emerging health issues and promote a "research culture" within the BUMDC system.
The objectives of SRF include advocating the importance of students conducting and publishing various research projects and providing opportunities for students to acquire knowledge and skills in managing research under the guidance of mentors and supervisors. SRF aims to engage students in basic and clinical research activities, working directly with the faculty to enhance their research capabilities.
The anticipated outcomes of SRF participation include developing a group of young professionals with hands-on experience conducting research, recognizing BUHSC as an institution that fosters highly qualified professionals, and enhancing students' resumes through their involvement in research activities. Additionally, SRF aims to support students by providing grants for research projects, motivating them to pursue their research interests and potentially publish their findings in journals.
Overall, SRF offers students the opportunity to engage in meaningful research activities, gain valuable experience, and contribute to advancing medical knowledge and practice. By participating in SRF, students can develop essential research skills, work alongside experienced mentors, and positively impact the healthcare landscape.
Let us Establish a Competitive Research Culture at BUHSC
"Calling all young researchers! Unlock your research potential with expert guidance from our Research Advisory Committee at Bahria University of Health Sciences! Join forces with our committee to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of Health Sciences research and make your mark on the future of healthcare. Let our committees support you in developing impactful research proposals and accessing funding opportunities. Discover the power of collaboration and partnership with our Research Advisory Committee, connecting you with like-minded institutions and stakeholders. Elevate your research game with the strategic insights and cutting-edge trends identified by our committee in the field of Health Sciences. Empower your research journey with ethical considerations, scientific rigor, and alignment with organizational goals guided by our esteemed committee. Take your research to new heights by leveraging our committee's expertise in monitoring, evaluating, and disseminating research findings through various platforms. Join us in shaping the future of Health Sciences research, supported by the transparency, integrity, and accountability upheld by our Research Advisory Committee."
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INSTITUTIONAL REVIEW BOARD Research Proposal FOR ETHICAL REVIEW FORM
BAHRIA UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES INSTITUTIONAL REVIEW BOARD Research Proposal FORM #1
BAHRIA UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES INSTITUTIONAL REVIEW BOARD Research Proposal FORM
