Understanding research

Learn what scientific studies are, what types of research humans can be part of, how it’s reviewed, and Bellberry’s role in ensuring ethical and responsible studies.

Types of research you might take part in

Scientific research involves systematically collecting and analysing information to answer questions or test ideas.

Depending on what is being studied, you might be asked to take part in:

Clinical trials — testing new medicines, treatments or medical devices
Behavioural or social studies — exploring how people think, feel or respond in different situations
Survey, interview or focus group studies — gathering people’s views and experiences
Health services or quality improvement studies — improving programs, policies or services
Data or registry studies — analysing existing information to find patterns or outcomes

Clinical trials are often carried out in phases

If you’re considering taking part in health and medical research, you might hear it described by phase:

Phase I — small studies testing safety and dosage
Phase II — testing whether a treatment works as expected
Phase III — comparing results across larger groups of people
Phase IV — monitoring long-term effects once a treatment is in use

How research is reviewed

Before any study can begin, an independent Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) must review it to check that it’s scientifically sound, ethically acceptable, and conducted in a way that protects the welfare of people taking part, who are often referred to as ‘research participants’.

As part of this review, the committee considers:

The purpose and design of the study
How participants will be recruited
How the study identifies, minimises and manages risks
Whether the information provided to participants is clear and easy to understand
Whether appropriate monitoring arrangements are in place

This review is what gives a study its ethical approval to ensure research is conducted with care, transparency, and respect. It’s a process that continues throughout the life of the study, not just at the start.

Bellberry’s role in ethical oversight

Bellberry is an independent, not-for-profit organisation that provides ethics review and ongoing oversight for research involving people.

Our Human Research Ethics Committees (HRECs) review research to ensure that studies approved follow the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research, as well as any other relevant laws and regulations.

Bellberry does not run studies or contact participants directly — our role is to independently review and oversee research from an ethical perspective, on your behalf.

Informed consent and participant rights

Taking part in research is always voluntary, and the choice to continue participating is yours throughout — not just at the start of the study.

To find out more about informed consent and your rights as a participant, see Before You Take Part.

Useful links

Before You Take Part

Considering joining a research study? Here’s what you need to know before giving consent — from understanding your rights to asking the right questions.

Learn More

Complaints

If you have concerns about a study or the way it has been managed, learn how to raise a complaint with Bellberry.