Bioethics and Research Integrity Committee: Research Participant Advocate
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CCTS Events
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Contact Information
Dr. Thomas S. Foster
Director
(859) 323-5329
foster@email.uky.edu
Ada Sue Selwitz
Co-Director
(859) 257-2978
selwitz@email.uky.edu
Related Links

Center for Clinical and Translational Science  |  740 S. Limestone  |  Lexington, KY 40536-0284  |  (859) 323-2615

Research Participant Advocate

The Research Participant Advocate (RPA) ensures that human research protections are accorded the highest priority in all studies, and it serves as a sounding board for current and prospective research participants. The RPA:

  • Conveys concerns to BRIC and other appropriate channels.
  • Audits research protocols for subject safety.
  • Assists with preparation of Data and Safety Monitoring Plans.
  • Monitors adverse event reporting.
  • Works with investigators to ensure that monitoring plans approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) are fully implemented and that studies are carried out in compliance with the IRB-approved protocol.
  • The RPA also cooperates in advocacy training within the CCTS:

    • Advises on participant protections in all CCTS training.
    • Assists in BRIC staff development to ensure that participant advocacy and protections are accorded high priority in “train the trainer” outreach to regional CCTS sites.
    • Cooperates with BRIC staff in the development and delivery of Web-based and direct outreach training to regional CCTS site personnel.
    • Reviews quality improvement/quality assurance audits.
    • Resources
      UK Research Compliance Officer

      All IRB-approved consent forms include a confidential contact, the UK Research Compliance Officer (see Related Links), who is also designated to handle participant suggestions or concerns.

      To request an appointment with the Research Participant Advocate, please use the Contact Information.