1.1 Purpose
These SOPs provide a comprehensive operational framework for the ethical review, approval, monitoring, and oversight of research involving human participants at Levy Mwanawasa Medical University (LMMU).
Protection of research participants
Scientific integrity
Compliance with national and international ethical standards
1.2 Scope
Applies to:
- All human subject research conducted at or through LMMU
- Student (BSc, MSc, PhD), faculty, and externally sponsored research
- Clinical trials and international collaborative research
1.3 Guiding Principles
Respect for Persons
Recognising the autonomy of individuals and protecting those with diminished autonomy.
Beneficence
Maximise benefits and minimise harms to research participants.
Justice
Ensure fair distribution of research benefits and burdens.
1.4 Institutional Identity
The LMMU-IRB reflects the University's commitment to advancing ethical research in Zambia, building national research capacity, and ensuring community-centred and culturally appropriate research.