(Trial) Measures for Science and Technology Ethics Reviews

Investment Rating - The report does not provide a specific investment rating for the industry Core Insights - The report outlines the newly implemented (Trial) Measures for Science and Technology Ethics Reviews, which aim to regulate ethical reviews in scientific research and technology development, emphasizing the importance of responsible innovation and risk prevention [7][8] Summary by Sections General Provisions - The Measures are formulated to strengthen the governance of science and technology ethics and to promote responsible innovation [7] - S&T activities that require ethics reviews include those involving human participants, laboratory animals, and activities posing ethical risks [8] Reviewers - Institutions such as universities and research organizations are responsible for managing S&T ethics reviews and must establish ethics review committees for sensitive research areas [14][15] - The committees must have at least seven members with diverse expertise and backgrounds [17] Review Procedures - S&T ethics risk assessments are mandatory before conducting S&T activities, and applications for ethics reviews must include detailed information about the proposed activities [20][21] - The review committee can approve, modify, or disapprove applications based on ethical considerations [35] Supervision and Management - The Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) oversees the overall guidance of S&T ethics reviews, while local departments manage supervision [64] - Work units must register their ethics review committees and report on their activities annually [67][70] Supplementary Provisions - The Measures define "S&T ethical risk" and outline the criteria for minimal risks, which are routine risks encountered in daily life [81] - The Measures will be implemented starting December 1, 2023 [86]