The consideration of the ethical implications of all research activity – including that undertaken by you as a student - represents good research practice.  Failure to comply with the University Research Ethics Policy may result in referral to the Senate Student Disciplinary Committee.

While research ethics should always be a consideration for you and your supervisor, formal ethics approval is not always a requirement.  Guidance on assessing the ethical implications of your study, and when an application for formal ethical approval is necessary is available on the University Research Ethics website and on the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences Research Ethics website

For some research undertaken in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and which involves NHS patients, staff or premises, you will need to follow NHS research ethics and governance procedures to secure formal ethical approval. Further information on how to apply can be found on the Integrated Research Application System