Institutional Scientific and Ethics Review Committee
Chair: Dr. Charles Mukabi Waweru
The Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital (MNTRH) Institutional Scientific and Ethics Review Committee (ISERC) is responsible for conducting independent, competent, and timely reviews of research proposals involving human participants. The committee ensures that all research conducted at MNTRH upholds the highest ethical standards, prioritizing the dignity, rights, and well-being of study participants.
The ISERC operates under the accreditation of the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI), Government of Kenya . The committee has been accredited to review research proposals in Health, Biomedical, and Social Sciences for a three-year period from 25th February 2025 to 24th February 2028. The assigned accreditation number is NACOSTI/NSEC/AC/04825. The ISERC functions in accordance with NACOSTI-approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Terms of Reference (ToR), which define its objectives, roles, scope of responsibility, composition, and documentation requirements.
ISERC Membership
The committee is composed of a gender-sensitive, multidisciplinary team of professionals, including medical scientists, clinicians, public health specialists, sociologists, laypersons, theologians, lawyers, and health system management experts. Members serve for a two-year term, while the chairperson is appointed for three years, with the possibility of reappointment at the discretion of the institution.
Review Process
The ISERC convenes on the second Tuesday of every month, with additional meetings scheduled as needed based on the volume of submissions. Research proposals are reviewed based on their risk level, and may undergo either a full committee review, expedited review, or exemption process. Applications requiring a full committee review must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the scheduled meeting date.
Downloads
- Proposal Guidelines
- Types of Review
- Adverse Events Reporting
- Guidelines for handling human biological specimen
- Checklist
Our goal is to become a hub of excellence in mental health and neuroscience research, addressing critical Mental health challenges and informing evidence-based solutions.
About the Department
The Research Department was established with a focus on mental health and neurosciences, positioning Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital as a premier institution for psychiatric care and research in Kenya and the region.
Objectives:
• To conduct cutting-edge research that advances mental health knowledge.
• To support policy formulation with evidence-based research findings.
• To foster interdisciplinary collaborations that enhance mental health research.
Leadership & Team
Our department is led by a dynamic team of experts who bring a wealth of experience in mental health and neurosciences:
The Head of Research leads the department with a passion for transformative research in mental health.
Our team is made up of psychiatrists, Psychologists, medical officers, social workers, occupational therapist, physicians, epidemiologists, public health specialists, clinical officers, data scientist, mental health nurses, pharmacists, patient representatives and legal officers.
Core Services/Functions
The Research Department plays a crucial role in:
- Clinical Research: We support clinical trials and observational studies focusing on psychiatric disorders, treatment outcomes, and innovative therapies.
- Health Systems Research: Investigating the efficiency of mental health service delivery in Kenya, with an aim to improve patient care.
- Epidemiological Studies: Understanding the prevalence, risk factors, and societal impact of mental health disorders across different populations.
Research & Innovation
We are at the forefront of mental health research, with several active projects aimed at improving patient outcomes and influencing mental health policy in Kenya.
- Current Projects: Our team is currently working on a national survey on the prevalence of mental health disorders in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.
- Publications: Our department has supported multiple publications from data research work done by students and research organisations at MNTRH.
- Research Grants: We are keen on working with multiple partners/ stakeholders for grant application to support our work.
Education & Training Programs
Our department is committed to capacity-building and knowledge transfer through:
- Research Fellowships: We offer structured training programs for upcoming researchers in mental health.
- Workshops and Seminars: Regular workshops on research methodology, data analysis, and health policy translation.
- Student Internships: Opportunities for university students to gain hands-on experience in mental health research.
Achievements & Impact
We have made significant strides in shaping the mental health research landscape in Kenya:
- Policy Influence: Our findings have been instrumental in guiding the development of Kenya's Mental Health Policy, action plan , suicide prevention strategy among other policy documents.
- Innovations: Participated in the developed the Mental Health Morbidity Summary Tool for the Division of Mental Health, Ministry of Health Kenya, aiding in mental health data collection and analysis across health facilities.
- Community Impact: Our research has led to the development of community-based mental health programs that increase access to care for underserved populations.
We welcome collaborations and partnerships with institutions, researchers, and students passionate about mental health. You can get involved through:
• Collaborative Research: Join us in co-developing innovative research projects.
• Internships & Volunteering: Opportunities for students and professionals to contribute to ongoing research.
• Donations: Support our efforts to improve mental health research and care.
