Q: Which papers are accepted
for ethical review?
A: UPOU IREC review all types of research studies with minimal-risks.
Q: Who are eligible to submit
papers for review?
A: We review research studies from
1. Bonafide students of UP Open University
2. Faculty members of UP Open University
3. REPS and Admin staff of UP Open University, and
4. Researchers from other accredited institutions
Q: How can I apply my study for an initial review?
A: One must complete the requirements and email them at [email protected].
A short video on initial submission process can be viewed at our website
For students
For Faculty, Reps, and Admin Staff
Q: What are the forms needed for initial resubmission?
A: The forms required can be viewed at https://irec.upou.edu.ph/requirements/
Please add an underscore and the primary investigator’s Surname in the filenames (example: Juan_UPOU IREC Form 6(A) Application for Ethics Review of a New Protocol) for proper identification and filing.
Q: Do I need to submit any hard copies of the requirements?
A: No. As part of our adaptation of OVPAA protocols for the duration of the health emergency on paperless transactions, all submissions and communications are conducted online through our email [email protected].
Q: When can we submit our requirements for ethical review?
A: You may submit them during office hours, Mondays to Fridays, 8:00 am to 5:00. However, please be guided that since we conduct our monthly meeting every 1st Monday of the month, we encourage you to submit your requirements on or before 3rd Monday to be included in the upcoming batch of papers for review.
Q: When and how do I know the results?
A: Ethical review decisions are typically communicated via email within four to six weeks. However, this timeline may vary depending on the researchers’ compliance with any recommendations or comments from reviewers, if applicable.
Q: What happens if the result says “Modification Required” or “Deferred”?
A: You will be allowed to resubmit your manuscript, informed consent, and resubmission form 30 days from the release of decision.
If we have not received your resubmission within the said date, your protocol application shall be terminated.
Q: Can I still submit the research protocol beyond the resubmission due date?
A: Yes, but the study protocol shall undergo the initial submission process again.
Q: Do you accept submissions for reviews from other UP CUs?
A: Yes, we are now accepting research proposals from other accredited institutions for ethics review.
Q: How much do I have to pay for an ethical review?
A: The ethics review fees vary based on the categories established by the Committee. For more details, please contact the UPOU IREC secretariat.
For inquiries, kindly email [email protected].