“University Committee’s Job Is to Protect Human Participants in Research Studies”
Bradley M. Waite (left), Professor and Chair of the Human Studies Council at Central Connecticut State University as well as the Chairperson of the Department of Psychology
Stephen J. Courtney( right) is a labor and employment attorney at Central, and is the legal counsel for the Human Studies Council


Central Connecticut State University is primarily known as a teaching university.  However, another core area of work being done by University faculty and students is the advancement of knowledge through research. Much of the research, especially that done in the social and behavioral sciences and in education, requires the participation of people as research subjects. Most projects conducted at CCSU do not carry a high degree of risk to participants, such as the physical risk often associated with medical research.  However, it is not uncommon that participants are asked to disclose personal information, fill out questionnaires, undergo interviews, or be exposed to certain experiences that could involve private and sensitive topics.  To insure that this research is conducted in an ethical manner toward human subjects, federal law requires that the University establish an Institutional Review Board, which at Central is called the Human Studies Council (HSC). 

Since its establishment 20 years ago, Central’s Human Studies Council has been responsible for the ethical review of research involving human beings at the University.  Before any research projects involving people are carried out, the HSC reviews the research proposal and methods of study to insure that the rights of human participants are protected, that ethical practices are followed, and that any risks are minimized.  It is only when these safeguards are established, and the HSC has given approval, that a research project can go forward.  Over the last 10 years, the number of faculty and student research projects reviewed by the HSC has steadily increased.  Most recently, in the last year, there were approximately 240 research proposals submitted to the HSC for review –covering a wide variety of topics. 

What type of participants’ rights and risks are examined by the HSC?  Some researchers may examine sensitive topics such as substance abuse or date rape.  Others may examine the impact of family life on a student’s success in school.  While participation as a research subject is usually rewarding and interesting, individuals in such research projects may be asked questions about these topics in which they could divulge private and sensitive information about themselves or their family and friends.  In these cases, research participants may have legitimate concerns about protecting their privacy rights and maintaining confidentiality. 

To address these concerns, the HSC works with researchers to build in appropriate safeguards and to insure that prospective participants are fully informed about potential risks. If children or minors are involved, such informed consent will be obtained from parents or legal guardians.  

With over 20 years experience reviewing proposed research projects at Central, and by making sure that the council has expertise from scientists and non-scientists alike, the HSC plays a vitally important role in protecting the rights of research subjects.

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