Research ethics committee

In Switzerland, human research projects generally require review by a competent ethics committee before they begin. The committee assesses participant information, consent procedures, risks and benefits, data and sample handling, insurance or compensation issues, and scientific quality. It is independent of the research sponsor and investigator. Approval does not replace the investigator’s ongoing duties, including safety reporting and respect for participants’ withdrawal rights. Ethics review is central to public trust in clinical trials, biobanks and other health research.