Research Ethics and Governance Unit (REGU)

What is Research?

There is no generally agreed definition of research; however, research is generally understood to be an investigation, through the collection, organisation and analysis of evidence, undertaken to gain knowledge and increase understanding of a topic, or to train researchers. 

What is Human Research?

According to the National Statement 2023, ‘Human research is conducted with or about people, or their data or tissue and includes the involvement of human beings through: 

• taking part in surveys, interviews or focus groups
• undergoing psychological, physiological or medical testing or treatment
• being observed by researchers
• researchers having access to their personal documents or other materials
• the collection and use of their body organs, tissues or fluids (eg skin, blood, urine, saliva, hair, bones, tumour and other biopsy specimens) or their exhaled breath
• access to their information (in individually identifiable, re-identifiable or non-identifiable form) as part of an existing published or unpublished source or database

Our research strategy

Developed in consultation with our researchers, partners, consumers and sponsors, Tasmania’s Research Strategy: A Three-Year Plan, (the Strategy) is the overarching health and medical research strategy for Tasmanian publicly funded health services. The Strategy sets a clear direction to ensure that Tasmanians receive the best possible, evidence-based healthcare.

Research governance (site specific assessment) is distinct from research ethics review. However, both must be approved/authorised before research can commence at a site.  

Keep up to date with our latest news and events