CONFERENCEThe need for a research ethics committee opinion in student research is determined by the internal regulations of each faculty. Students are advised to consult with their supervisor in a timely manner to determine whether a particular research project requires an ethics committee opinion.
Ethical principles
Research planning and implementation must be based on the following fundamental principles:
- autonomy and voluntary participation – the rights of research participants to information and freedom of choice must be guaranteed by providing clear information about the purpose of the research, procedures, possible risks, and potential benefits
- informed consent – research participants must be provided with sufficiently detailed information to enable them to make an informed decision about participation; consent may be obtained in writing, orally, or through specific actions, depending on the nature of the research.
- confidentiality and data protection – personal data must be processed in accordance with regulatory enactments, ensuring the protection of research participants privacy
- prevention of harm and maximization of benefits – the researcher must assess the potential risks to research participants and develop a strategy to mitigate them, as well as assess the benefits to society and research participants.
If faculty regulations require obtaining the opinion of the ethics committee
Students are advised to submit their applications in a timely manner, as it usually takes 2-3 weeks to receive the opinion of the ethics committee. The application must be completed electronically and accompanied by samples of the research instruments (e.g., questionnaires, interview questions, observation protocols) and a sample informed consent form.
Important! Already signed informed consent documents must not be attached to the application, as this would violate the confidentiality of the research participants.
Additional information
Detailed information on ethical requirements, the need for an ethics committee opinion, the application form, and procedures is available on the website of the relevant faculty:
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Latvia (in Latvian) – research ethics (research projects are reviewed by the Committee for Earth Sciences, Physical Geography, Environmental Sciences, and Social and Economic Geography Research, or by the Ethics Committee for Optometry and Vision Science Research)
- Faculty of Education and Psychology, University of Latvia – Research Ethics Committee
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Latvia – research ethics (research works are reviewed by one of three specialized committees depending on the field of research: medicine; occupational safety, ergonomics, chemistry, and civil protection; or biology, nutrition, and sports).