Peer Review
Peer Review
All projects must be subjected to independent peer review to ensure that the project is viable, scientifically valid and the methodology well-considered for the delivery of the study.
If you have received external funding and the project has undergone a robust peer review as part of the award process, you would not normally be asked for a further peer review, though this can be the case in exceptional circumstances.
If your research has not been subject to robust external peer review, the following applies:
|
Project Type |
Peer Review Requirements |
|
Undergraduate/taught Postgraduate |
It is recommended that one member of University academic staff, (not supervising the project) undertakes peer review; however, this is not mandatory |
|
Research student (PhD, MPhil, MD) |
Two members of University academic staff |
|
University Staff – University Research Sponsor |
Two reviewers (can be external to the University) |
|
University Staff – University/Trust Research Co–sponsor |
Two reviewers, preferably one appointed by each organisation, but both could be appointed by either the University or Trust |
|
University Staff – Trust Research Sponsor |
Two reviewers appointed by the Trust (can be University staff or external) |
Peer Review Forms
There are two standard forms available. The basic application for peer review form (Gov 1) should be completed for studies seeking ethical approval from a School Research Ethics Committee (SREC) or for medium risk projects. Where the peer reviewer wishes to provide more detailed guidance, the full application for peer review form can be used (Gov 4).
- Basic application for peer review form (Gov 1) (doc)
- Full Application for Peer Review Form (Gov 4) (doc)
For studies that require ethical approval from an NHS/HSC REC, a full application for peer review form (Gov 4) will need to be completed.
MHLS Faculty REC also requires the peer review(s) to be submitted with your ethics application. For projects submitted for review by the full committee, the Gov 4 form must be used.