Research Ethics Training in latinAMericA (RETAMA)

PROJECT SUMMARY Peru’s science, technology, and innovation system has seen significant growth in the past decade, particularly in biomedical research. However, the country’s approach to research ethics has not kept pace; Peru has few scholars in research ethics, its research universities offer no graduate degree or specialty track in research ethics, and there is scant original ethics research. A team of leaders in research and research training from Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia (UPCH) Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt (IMTAvH) in collaboration with experienced Peruvian social scientists and internationally recognized research ethicists from Tulane University, University of Texas-Southwestern Medical School, and University of Miami propose Research Ethics Training in latinAMericA (RETAMA). RETAMA is a program aimed to leverage UPCH extensive experience in high-quality research in health sciences, along with our collaborators' international experience in research ethics training, to expand the number of scientists trained in research ethics. We will establish a high-impact, 18-month culturally-tailored master’s degree program in international research ethics and integrity. The program will incorporate practicum experiences, research opportunities, and professional mentoring to provide two cohorts of 13 Peruvian RETAMA fellows. with knowledge, skills, and insights to develop and sustain a career in research ethics. We will also offer short-term options with specific educational needs in research ethics, including a 6–9-month certificate program leveraging courses and activities from the master’s degree program that build key practical skills for IRB members and chairs. Lastly, we will develop a comprehensive online course on responsible conduct of research, in Spanish, accessible to all health science researchers in Peru and Latin America. Ultimately, we aim to increase the impact of high quality and responsibly conducted research in health and health sciences, to positively impact the life and health of populations.