About Us
Learn about the National Research Ethics Board of Liberia, our mission, and our commitment to ethical research standards.
Overview
The National Research Ethics Board of Liberia (NREBL) is the premier institution responsible for overseeing and regulating research involving human subjects in Liberia. Established under the Ministry of Health, NREBL serves as the guardian of ethical standards in research, ensuring that all scientific investigations adhere to the highest moral and professional standards.
Our mandate encompasses the review, approval, and monitoring of research protocols across various sectors including biomedical research, social sciences, public health studies, and clinical trials. We work collaboratively with universities, research institutions, healthcare facilities, and international partners to foster a culture of responsible research that prioritizes participant safety and scientific integrity.
Since our establishment, NREBL has reviewed and approved hundreds of research projects, contributing significantly to Liberia's scientific advancement while maintaining uncompromising ethical standards. Our work aligns with international guidelines including the Declaration of Helsinki, CIOMS guidelines, and WHO standards for research ethics.
Our Mission
To safeguard the rights, safety, and welfare of research participants while promoting high-quality ethical research that contributes to national development and global scientific knowledge. We ensure that all research conducted in Liberia meets international ethical standards and serves the public interest.
Our Vision
To be a leading authority in research ethics, recognized nationally and internationally for excellence in promoting ethical research standards and protecting human subjects. We aspire to make Liberia a model for ethical research practices in Africa and beyond.
Core Values
- Integrity
- Transparency
- Respect for Persons
- Justice
- Beneficence
Legal Mandate
The National Research Ethics Board of Liberia operates under the legal framework established by the Liberian Government through the Ministry of Health. Our authority is derived from:
- The Public Health Law of Liberia (1970, amended 2010)
- The National Health Research Policy (2015)
- The Liberia Medical and Dental Council Act
- International conventions ratified by Liberia
Our legal responsibilities include:
- Reviewing and approving all research protocols involving human subjects
- Monitoring ongoing research to ensure continued compliance
- Establishing national guidelines for ethical research
- Training researchers and ethics committee members
- Collaborating with international ethics bodies
- Enforcing sanctions for ethical violations
Organizational Structure
NREBL operates through a well-defined organizational structure designed to ensure efficient and effective oversight of research activities in Liberia:
Board of Directors
The highest governing body responsible for strategic direction and policy formulation. Comprises distinguished professionals from various disciplines including medicine, law, ethics, and social sciences.
Executive Office
Led by the Executive Director, responsible for day-to-day operations, implementation of board decisions, and coordination of all NREBL activities.
Technical Committees
Specialized committees focusing on different research domains including biomedical research, social sciences, and clinical trials. These committees provide expert review of research protocols.
Secretariat
Administrative support staff responsible for processing applications, maintaining records, scheduling meetings, and providing logistical support to all NREBL functions.
Our History
2010 - Foundation
NREBL was established in response to the growing need for ethical oversight of research activities in post-conflict Liberia. The Ebola outbreak highlighted the critical importance of ethical research frameworks.
2012 - First Guidelines
Development and publication of Liberia's first National Research Ethics Guidelines, establishing standards for ethical conduct of research involving human subjects.
2015 - International Recognition
NREBL received recognition from the World Health Organization for our contributions to establishing ethical research standards in West Africa, particularly during the Ebola research efforts.
2018 - Capacity Building
Launch of comprehensive training programs for researchers and ethics committee members, significantly enhancing the country's capacity for ethical research oversight.
2020 - Digital Transformation
Implementation of online submission and tracking systems, streamlining the review process and improving transparency and efficiency.
2023 - Regional Leadership
NREBL became a founding member of the West African Research Ethics Network, taking a leadership role in promoting regional collaboration and harmonization of ethical standards.
Present - Continued Excellence
Today, NREBL continues to evolve and adapt to new challenges in research ethics, maintaining our commitment to protecting research participants while promoting scientific advancement in Liberia.
Our Leadership
Board Members
Dr. Sarah M. Johnson
Chairperson
Expert in Bioethics and Medical Ethics with over 20 years of experience in research oversight.
Prof. Michael Brown
Vice Chairperson
Renowned researcher and academic with extensive experience in clinical research ethics.
Dr. Emily Davis
Member
Legal expert specializing in health law and research regulations.
Executive Team
Dr. James Wilson
Executive Director
Leads NREBL's strategic direction and daily operations.
Dr. Patricia Moore
Director of Research
Oversees all research protocol reviews and approvals.
Dr. Robert Taylor
Training Coordinator
Develops and implements ethics training programs.