We have received a high number of RPF submissions through the full application system. Please note that this is not the correct submission route for RPFs. RPF applications must be submitted via the [email protected] email address — not through this system.
Before submitting any application, all applicants are required to read the resources page, and ensure they are using the correct submission method for their application type. Submissions sent through the wrong channel may be delayed.
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Due to a high volume of applications currently being received, our processing times may be longer than usual. As a result, there may be a delay in the Research Ethics Committee reviewing your application. We kindly ask for your patience during this time and apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused.
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The REC meeting dates for 2026/2027 will be announced soon.
The University of Chester is required to operate an active and rigorous process for the scrutiny of the ethical implications of research projects. All staff and postgraduate student projects require ethical review, with either a research project form or a full application form submitted for each project.
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Research Project Forms
If you and your supervisor have agreed that a full application for ethical approval is not required, please fill out a Research Project Form and send it to [email protected].
Full Application Forms
Applicants must make a full application for ethical approval if their proposed project involves any of the following:
If you and your supervisor have agreed that a full application for ethical approval is required, please complete a Full Application Form and submit it on this system. New applicants are required to create an account before submitting an application. You can view the status of any application by logging into your account.
Umbrella Application Forms
If you are a supervisor setting up a project under which future research (by other staff or postgraduate students) will be 'nested' under, please complete an Umbrella Application Form and submit it on this system.
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It is important to remember that failing to obtain ethical approval or not complying with regulatory, legal and professional implications for research projects constitutes 'research misconduct' and breaches the University's Academic Conduct policy (AS QSM Handbook F06 Academic Conduct Policy).
Retrospective applications will not be considered under any circumstances. It is your responsibility as an applicant to submit your proposal in sufficient time if you are working towards strict deadlines.
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The Science & Engineering Research Ethics Committee aims to support both staff and postgraduate students by providing help and guidance on research ethics issues. Information about Science & Engineering's ethical approval process, together with template forms, other resources and the ethics submission system itself can be found on the resources page.
If you have any queries, please email [email protected].
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Before submitting a full application, please ensure that you have read and understood the overview above and have consulted the resources page to confirm you are using the correct documentation.