What is assessed?

Almost all research involving human participants has to be assessed by one of the two chambers of the (FEtC-H).

Research involving human participants that uses Big Data is not reviewed by the FETC-H (please use the Self-Reflection Guide instead), nor is most human participant research conducted by students.

How does the assessment process work?

First, read the information you need before submitting an application. You can then submit your application via the FETC-H portal.

For your application, you will need a participant information letter tailored to your study, together with a corresponding consent form. The FETC-H has prepared template documents for this purpose.

Assessment of your application

Submitted applications are reviewed through either a short-route procedure or a long-route procedure. In exceptional cases, applications may be referred to a Medical Research Ethics Committee (METC). For more information about the different procedures, please consult the Regulations (pdf) or view the flowchart (pdf).

Long routes are first assessed by one of the faculty privacy officers to ensure compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (Dutch: Algemene Verordening Gegevensbescherming). The FETC-H then evaluates whether the research meets ethical standards, whether participants are fully and appropriately informed, and whether the information contained in the data management plan, participant information letter(s), and any consent or approval form(s) is consistent throughout.

GDPR, privacy and data management

Visit the Privacy and Data Management website for guidance, background information, and the contact details of the privacy officer and data manager.