To protect research subjects, any study involving human subjects must be performed under conditions that insure subjects' rights and welfare through adequate safeguards and the informed consent of those involved. Such consent is valid, however, only if the subjects are first given a fair explanation of the procedures to be followed, their possible benefits and attendant hazards and discomforts, and the purpose and objectives of the research. This is particularly important when the research does not directly benefit the subjects involved. Safeguards should be especially stringent when subjects are legally, physically, or otherwise unable to give consent.
The University requires review of research projects by an appropriate committee to insure that
Faculty, staff, and students who use or care for laboratory animals agree to assume responsibility for the humane care and general welfare of the animals. Such responsibilities are outlined in the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals! (National Institutes of Health) and the "U. S. Government Principles for the Utilization and Care of Vertebrate Animals Used in Testing, Research, and Training." Researchers using animals are also expected to comply with the Public Health Services Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals by Awardee Institutions and the "University of Delaware Assurance of Compliance with PHS Policy on Care and Use of Laboratory Animals by Awardee Institutions." The University Animal Care and Use Committee reviews projects that use animal subjects.
The Vice Provost for Research is the general administrator of all policies concerning the use of human or animal research subjects. Additional information concerning these policies can be obtained from the Office of Research or from the Research Policies and Procedures Guide.
