The University has stringent guidelines for protecting the welfare and rights of human subjects who participate in research projects, including interviews and surveys.
Staff and student research projects that involve data collection of this nature - even if responses are anonymous - need ethical clearance.
Passive observation of human subjects in a public arena, or research involving accessing public documents, doesn't require ethical approval.
How to apply
Students
All research that involves human subjects must get ethical clearance from a Human Research Ethics Committee using the NHMRC’s Human Research Ethics Application (HREA).
View UQ's guidelines on risk reviews, or ask your supervisor or academic advisor if you're unsure of your project's risk category.
The application process takes time, so start your application early to avoid disappointment. Allow 2-4 weeks for processing.
Ensure that you:
- complete the required reading outlined in the form
- prepare any required paperwork, such as consent forms, information sheets and draft interview or survey questions
- ask your supervisor or academic advisor to complete the required reading outlined in the form, and to fill out their sections of the form
- ask your supervisor or academic advisor to sign the declaration.
To find out more, including how to apply, visit UQ Research and Innovation's Human ethics webpages.
Contact us
For more information, email our Academic Services Officer or telephone: +61 7 5460 1691