This section of the Report focuses on several issues that are central to the proper administration of research. The Task Force has identified the review of research contracts and the role of the Clinical Research Secretariat as key issues. Recommendations pertaining to conflict of interest which emanate from the Hospital s role in the administration of research are presented in Section 2.1 of this Report. Over the past two years, the Hospital has substantially increased the degree to which it scrutinizes research contracts. Currently, the Hospital must be a signatory to all research contracts other than individual consulting contracts.
Researchers sometimes sign separately.
Before being presented to Research Institute executives for signing, proposed contracts are reviewed by Business Development staff within the Research Institute. Contracts should be signed by researchers as well as by the Hospital. The Hospital should review the nature of researchers obligations under contracts generally and under specific contracts as they are considered. Research contracts that involve HSC employees or staff must be signed by the Hospital. These contracts are not always signed by the researchers who have obligations under the contracts.