Research Ethics Committee Holds Inaugural Meeting 2025/2026

In a significant move reflecting PUA’s commitment to international scientific integrity standards, the Research Ethics Committee (REC) held its first meeting under its new independent structure for the 2025/2026 academic year. This transition highlights the committee’s autonomy in research evaluation, moving away from its previous format where meetings were held on the sidelines of the Graduate Studies Council.

The meeting was chaired by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Gaber Abu Ali, Vice President for Postgraduate Studies and Research, with the attendance of the committee chair, rapporteur, and coordinators from various faculties. The session involved a rigorous review of research proposals from the faculties of Pharmacy, Dentistry, Applied Health Sciences Technology, Tourism and Hotel Management, among others. Crucial decisions were made regarding ethical approvals for clinical and non-clinical studies, with a strict emphasis on confidentiality protocols and the prevention of conflicts of interest.

Furthermore, the committee reviewed the outcomes of previous ethical compliance workshops and approved a plan for additional training sessions to enhance members’ expertise in evaluating complex research proposals. This new era for the REC underscores PUA’s dedication to fostering a robust research environment that protects participant rights and elevates the quality of the university’s scientific output to meet global benchmarks.