*Please note that this information may be updated depending on the latest information and advice from the health service and/or Government.
Impact of COVID-19 on research
During a pandemic event research cannot continue in exactly the same way as before. Participant and staff safety has, and will always be, a priority for CAHS in determining how and why we do research.
This means that some research will continue with appropriate risk management, while other projects stop recruitment or intervention and focus on other aspects that can be done remotely.
There are also opportunities for new research that examines and seeks to understand a range of issues and treatments in relation to coronavirus and the way we manage a pandemic event.
COVID-19 and research processes at CAHS
This web page has been set up with information specific to CAHS researchers and our research partners. All research activity should adhere to existing policies and guidelines set by the health service and State and Federal Governments for research, remote working arrangements and other COVID-19 response and management.
Research reactivation / commencement process during COVID-19 pandemic for studies conducted at CAHS
Please work through the normal processes for conducting research at CAHS. There are some additional considerations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please refer to this
flowchart for specific details on how to reactivate, continue or commence research, noting the approval levels required to work through the process. In addition to the specific information listed in the sections below, a Fact Sheet has been developed about
Continuing or Recommencing Research during COVID-19 pandemic with general advice for studies conducted at CAHS. In the first instance, please refer to the CPI/PI for specific advice related to the individual project. The CAHS Department of Research can provide additional support or advice if clarification or extra detail is required.
Flowchart: Research reactivation / commencement process during COVID-19 pandemic

COVID-19: Guidance on clinical trials for institutions, HRECs, researchers and sponsors
Information is now available on NHMRC’s website and published in the Downloads section. It is also available on the Department of Health Website.
It provides general information and advice to institutions conducting or overseeing research, Human Research Ethics Committees (HRECs), researchers and sponsors in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is directed towards those involved in clinical trial research and other relevant clinical research, but also may be of use to institutions, HRECs and researchers in other fields.
The advice represents current thinking and best practice at the government level and will be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect changes in government policy, public health advice and the needs of those conducting and participating in clinical research in Australia.
This advice is supported by CAHS.
What does this mean for your research project?
Find out more under the various options below. New content will be added regularly.