The organization structure of the National Research Ethics Board (NREB) of Liberia may vary based on its specific mandate, size, and operational requirements. However, here is a generalized organizational structure for the NREB:
- Chairperson/Executive Director:
- The Chairperson or Executive Director is responsible for providing overall leadership and strategic direction to the NREB.
- They oversee the day-to-day operations of the board, coordinate its activities, and represent the NREB in external engagements.
- Board Members:
- The NREB typically consists of board members who are experts in various fields related to research ethics, such as medicine, public health, social sciences, ethics, law, and community representatives.
- Board members may include researchers, ethicists, healthcare professionals, legal experts, and representatives from government agencies and civil society organizations.
- Secretariat/Staff:
- The Secretariat or administrative staff supports the functioning of the NREB by managing administrative tasks, coordinating meetings, maintaining records, and providing logistical support.
- The Secretariat may include positions such as administrative officers, research coordinators, ethics specialists, and clerical staff.
- Ethics Review Committees/Panel:
- The NREB may establish ethics review committees or panels to conduct the review of research proposals submitted for ethical approval.
- These committees or panels are composed of members with expertise in research ethics and relevant disciplines who evaluate the ethical aspects of research protocols and make recommendations for approval.
- Advisory Groups/Working Groups:
- The NREB may form advisory groups or working groups to provide specialized expertise or support for specific activities or initiatives.
- These groups may focus on areas such as policy development, capacity building, public engagement, or specific research domains.
- External Stakeholders:
- The NREB interacts with various external stakeholders, including researchers, research institutions, funding agencies, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the general public.
- Collaboration with external stakeholders is essential for promoting ethical conduct in research, fostering partnerships, and advancing the mission of the NREB.
This organizational structure ensures effective governance, decision-making, and coordination within the NREB, enabling it to fulfill its mandate of safeguarding the rights and welfare of research participants and promoting the ethical conduct of research in Liberia.