Human Ethics Committee (HEC)
Human Ethics Committee (HEC)
Reviews all research involving human participants, human tissue or identifiable human data, including student projects, service evaluations that meet the research threshold, and externally sponsored studies conducted at or by the University.
Committee structure
Review categories and turnaround
Exempt
Anonymous secondary data, published datasets. Target: 5 working days, chair action.
Expedited
Minimal-risk studies, non-invasive, competent adult participants. Target: 15 working days.
Full board
Interventional studies, vulnerable groups, identifiable data, tissue. Target: 30 working days from the submission deadline.
How the committee works
Forms required
Application form, protocol, participant information sheet, consent form, data management plan, investigator CVs, insurance confirmation where applicable.
After approval
Amendment requests, annual progress reporting, adverse event reporting within 72 hours, study closure report.
Appeals
Written appeal to the Chair within 20 working days, escalating to the VP Research.
External registration
Registration held with UAE health authorities and any international registration, with reference numbers — to be confirmed by the Committee.
Forms to submit
Not sure which committee reviews your study? See Research Approvals.