Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – MUBAS Research Ethics Committee (MUBASREC)
1. What is MUBASREC?
MUBASREC is the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences Research Ethics Committee responsible for overseeing the ethical review of research involving human participants conducted by MUBAS staff, students, and affiliates. It ensures that all research adheres to local and international ethical standards.
2. Who needs to submit their research proposals to MUBASREC?
All researchers affiliated with MUBAS, including staff, students, and external researchers conducting studies in Malawi, must submit their proposals for ethical review before starting research involving human participants.
3. How often does MUBASREC meet to review proposals?
The committee convenes monthly to review the scientific and ethical aspects of submitted research proposals.
4. How do I submit my research proposal to MUBASREC?
You must submit your application via email to mubasrec@mubas.ac.mw. The email subject line should clearly indicate the type of submission, e.g., “Initial Application.” In the future, submissions will be handled through an online system.
5. What documents are required for the initial submission of a research proposal?
- Completed proposal in the MUBASREC format
- Submission checklist
- Informed Consent Form (template provided)
- For foreign researchers: supporting letter from a local affiliating institution or local affiliation is required.
6. What if I need to amend my approved study?
Any changes to an approved study must be submitted using the Amendment form and checklist for review and approval before implementation.
7. How does the annual renewal process work?
All studies are approved for one year and must be renewed annually using the Continuing Review form, including a progress report and evidence of compliance fee payment. Failure to renew within one month after expiry results in the study being classified as lapsed.
8. What happens if my study lapses?
If the study lapses for more than one month, all study-related activities must cease except for participant welfare. If lapsed for two months, a new application must be submitted for approval before resuming.
9. How do I report protocol deviations or violations?
Any deviations from the approved study protocol must be reported immediately using the Protocol Deviation/Violation form.
10. How do I close out a completed study?
Upon study completion and publication, a Study Closeout form must be submitted to formally close the study.
11. Does MUBASREC provide training for researchers?
Yes. MUBASREC offers training on research ethics and methodology to all principal researchers, postgraduate students, and REC members to ensure adherence to high ethical standards.
12. Is ethics certification mandatory for researchers?
Yes. All researchers conducting studies involving human participants must have ethics certification such as the Global Health Training Centre (GHTC) certification.
13. Where can I find application forms and guidelines?
All application forms, checklists, and templates can be found on the MUBASREC website under the “Ethics Application and Submission Forms” section.
14. How can I contact MUBASREC for more information?
You can reach the MUBASREC Secretariat via email at mubasrecadministrator@mubas.ac.mw or mubascompliance@mubas.ac.mw, or mail to:
MUBAS Research Ethics Committee
Research & Innovation Department
P/ Bag 303, Chichiri, Blantyre 3, Malawi