
Autumn officially begins tomorrow, so whether you spend your weekend watching football, picking apples, or indulging in some pumpkin pie, make sure you leave room for our Research Ethics Roundup. This week’s installment features articles on recent protests over genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in China, the human side of clinical trials, and more!
Treatment of subject injury: Fair is fair: In this post from Bill of Heath, a blog from the Petrie-Flom Center at Harvard University, PRIM&R faculty member Suzanne Rivera, PhD, highlights the lack of clarity surrounding who is financially responsible for treatment when a research subject is harmed as a result of his or her participation in a study. Dr. Rivera also discusses the complications that can arise when an institutional review board (IRB), sponsor, or institution attempts to limn the details of liability relating to injury of a participant.

The trials of cancer trials: In this personal essay, Susan Gubar details the complexity and uncertainty of cancer research trials from a subject’s perspective. From daunting consent forms to the disappointment of disqualification, Ms. Gubar deftly illuminates the emotional toll of participation in scientific research.
Looking for more news? PRIM&R members can visit our Knowledge Center to find more recent scholarly journal and popular media articles pertaining to research ethics. Not yet a member? Learn more about becoming a member by visiting our website.