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Research Ethics Course for the Public and Patients – Now on HSeLanD

Training available for the public, patients, families and staff.

July 25, 2025

HSE R&D in partnership with the Irish Platform for Patient Organisations, Science and Industry (IPPOSI), the National Office for Research Ethics Committees, academic and patient partners, have co-developed and launched a new online course. It is designed to equip the public, patients, researchers and staff with the knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to ethical review processes, such as participating in Research Ethics Committees or supporting the ethical design of research studies.

What’s covered:

  • Module 1: Introduction and history of research ethics and its core principles
  • Module 2: RECs, ethical reviews and the role of Public and Patient Involvement (PPI)
  • Module 3: Key principles like informed consent, data protection and inclusive research
  • Module 4: Ethical issues in different populations, i.e., children and vulnerable groups
  • Module 5: Specialisation topics in emerging topics such as artificial intelligent (AI) and bio-banking

Course highlights:

  • Core modules 1-4, optional module 5
  • Video lessons, interactive quizzes and a certificate of completion
  • Learners receive a certificate on completion of the 4 core modules
  • Recommended refresh every 3 years

Whether you want to join a Research Ethics Committee or simply learn more about research ethics, this course is a great starting point.

To access the course, register as a Volunteer at HSeLanD. You do not need a HSE email to register as a Volunteer.

Click here to read our “How To Access Guide”

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