Research Compliance
Dr. Dawn N. L. Pittinger, Enterprise Director of Research Compliance
Upholding the Highest Standards in Research
Maintaining high standards is paramount in today's rapidly evolving research landscape. Through a collaborative approach between institutional research compliance oversight and research operations, we ensure that our research practices meet and exceed ethical and regulatory benchmarks. We leverage diverse expertise and perspectives by fostering collaborations with esteemed partners while driving innovation and excellence.听
Together, we are committed to upholding the integrity of our research, ensuring that it stands as a beacon of quality and trust while focusing on our priorities that go well beyond medicine to create a healthier future, for all kids.听
Compliance Areas
The core of the 91大神 Human Research Protection Program is the 91大神 Office of Human Subjects Protection (NOHSP).
The mission of NOHSP is to: 鈥渆nsure that all research and experimental use of drugs and devices involving human subjects conducted under the auspices of any 91大神 entity is conducted in a manner that assures the full protection of every participant as required by law and is in accordance with generally accepted precepts of the ethical conduct of research and with 91大神 policy鈥.
Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) are independent committees of scientific, medical, and community experts who play an important role in our commitment to safe, ethical, and transparent research. At 91大神, every study involving human participants is reviewed by a member or the convened member of the IRB.
This process ensures that research is conducted responsibly, with appropriate safeguards in place and risks carefully weighed against potential benefits. The IRB review process is central to how we uphold federal regulations, build public trust, and support high-quality pediatric research.
91大神 has two IRBs.
Research integrity refers to upholding ethical principles and standards throughout the entire research lifecycle. It involves honesty, rigor, transparency, and accountability to ensure trust and confidence in the results.
Our committee establishes the principles and practices for responsible conduct in research. This includes managing research data reporting, ensuring appropriate authorship and publication practices, and identifying and addressing potential conflicts of interest. Our goals are to protect honesty, objectivity, and respect for intellectual property rights.
Contact Us
Committee for Research Integrity
CRI@nemours.org
The Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) oversees research activities involving biological materials to ensure compliance with federal regulations and institutional policies.
This committee reviews and approves research protocols involving recombinant DNA, synthetic nucleic acids, biological agents, and other potentially hazardous materials to protect researchers, the public, and the environment. Regular IBC oversight is essential for maintaining research integrity, ensuring participant safety, and securing continued funding for pediatric research initiatives.听
Contact Us
Edward B. Mougey, PHD,听Committee Chair
edward.mougey@91大神.org
Jasmine Jackson,听Committee Coordinator
(302) 553-7452
biosafety@nemours.org听*
* Email us to request past meeting notes.听

Our mission is to proactively manage health and safety concerns associated with research activities. Research safety protocols adhere to laboratory standards and biosafety compliance. We provide guidance and coaching to ensure research compliance with federal and state regulations and identify potential hazards and ways to mitigate risks and prevent harm. We do this through documentation, safety training, standardized operating procedures, regular meetings, and implementing policies and safety initiatives.听
91大神 ensures the responsible management of research funding by providing financial oversight, compliance support, and meeting reporting requirements. Our team works closely with principal investigators, administrators, and external sponsors to maintain financial transparency and adherence to institutional, state, and federal regulations.
Contact Us
Research Finance
researchfinance@nemours.org
Our research legal team protects the interests of all research stakeholders and helps navigate the complex regulations involved in research activities. We guarantee compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and institutional policies governing pediatric research.
We offer guidance on issues like intellectual property rights, material transfer agreements, and regulatory compliance. We help maintain the highest ethical and legal standards in our research.
Research Agreements
Our office also facilitates research agreements between 91大神 and external partners. These agreements establish the legal framework for research collaborations, material transfers, data sharing, and intellectual property rights.听.听
Contact Us
听Jason J. Cerman, JD, Associate General Council
researchagreements@nemours.org
We uphold the highest standards in research through nationally recognized certifications. These designations reinforce our dedication to research integrity, regulatory compliance, and excellence in pediatric health care.
Notable certifications and accreditations include:
- 听鈥 Recognizes high standards in the humane care and use of laboratory animals in science
- 听鈥 Ensures comprehensive protections for participants in human research studies
- 听鈥 Regulates laboratory testing and ensures the accuracy, reliability, and timeliness of patient test results
- 听鈥 Accredits laboratories for meeting rigorous standards in pathology and laboratory medicine
- 听鈥 Certification ensures compliance with federal standards for workplace health and safety in laboratory and clinical environments