Scientific committees are panels of discipline experts responsible for conducting an in-depth scientific review of proposed studies before they undergo ethical evaluation. Their primary role is to assess the scientific validity and associated risk factors of the research and provide recommendations to the Ethics Committee. Scientific Committees are responsible for advising applicants on the appropriate REC to approach. Below are some of the essential elements of a scientific review:

1. Importance and novelty of the scientific question.
2. Thoroughness of the evaluation of relevant literature and previous studies.
3. Strength of the scientific design and methodology.
4. Feasibility of the research as designed.
5. Appropriateness of the inclusion/exclusion criteria.
6. Appropriateness of the analysis (statistical /qualitative/text).
7. Estimate of the probability of meeting the enrolment goals/sample size (if participants).
8. Strength of the qualifications of the researchers to carry out the study and facilities available for the study.
9. Monitoring plan.
10. Data-management plan.
11. Dissemination plan.

You may consult this document for a comprehensive description of the roles and responsibilities of scientific and ethics committees.

List of Scientific Committees