Memorial University’s commitment to excellence in scholarly research activities is achieved in part by the implementation of policies, procedures and processes that facilitate research ethics. We recognize that the efforts of our students, staff and faculty have ensured that the highest standards of research ethics are understood and practiced. Continuing efforts are being made to foster a culture that is free from fear of reprisal against those persons who make allegations of scholarly misconduct.

In recognition of the importance of creating an environment of excellence in research ethics, Memorial University has created this Award to recognize individuals who have demonstrated leadership in this area.

Memorial values courage among members of its research community and, as such, has named this award in honour of Marilyn Harvey, BN, a research nurse who brought forward her concerns regarding research ethics to senior administrators at the University.

The Marilyn Harvey Award to Recognize the Importance of Research Ethics will be given annually to a student, staff or faculty member, retiree or alumni who has distinguished themselves by their actions and contributions to scholarly research and embodies the institution’s commitment to excellence in research ethics. These efforts may take the form of service (past or present) to ethics committees  (locally, nationally or internationally), mentorship of colleagues or students on matters related to research ethics or other demonstrated contributions or achievements associated with research ethics.

The award will be based on evidence of continued distinction, in excess of the required level of performance. Serving on a research ethics board, especially if it is deemed necessary as part of your employment, will not be taken into consideration when adjudicating this award.

Only one award will be offered annually. There shall be no obligation to recommend an award in the absence of suitably qualified candidates. No individual shall receive the award more than once.

The award recipient will receive a personalized framed scroll, their name added to a permanent notation on a University display which lists the names of those that have received this honour, and a citation and presentation at an awards reception.

The award will be administered by the Vice-President (Research) who will issue an annual call for nominations, convene and Chair a Selection Committee which will review nominations and recommend a recipient for the award.

Nomination Procedure

Nominations for the Marilyn Harvey Award to Recognize the Importance of Research Ethics should be submitted to the Office of the Vice-President (Research) not later than June 1st of each year. If the deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline will automatically be scheduled for the next business day.

Nominations must be supported and signed by three (3) nominators. Nominations may come from alumni, faculty, staff, students and other members of the university community. The nominee’s manager, dean, director or supervisor must be included as either a nominator or a signatory on a letter of support. All letters should clearly indicate how the candidate has demonstrated outstanding contributions to research ethics at Memorial. Examples of their service that has exceeded what is normally expected of someone in their position would be beneficial. The nomination package is limited to the completion of the nomination form, a letter of nomination, and three letters of support only, however the letters of support may be endorsed by numerous individuals.

A contact person is required for every nomination. It is the responsibility of the contact person to coordinate the nomination, elicit other nominators and arrange for letters of support. As well, the contact person acts as the Selection Committee’s contact if further information is required. The contact person will represent the successful nominating group at the presentation ceremony.

All persons who agree to support a nomination by identifying themselves as a nominator must actively participate in the nomination process by contributing to and in turn, agreeing to the material included in the nomination package. Nominators may be contacted by the Selection Committee during its deliberations and should, therefore, include their title, current work address and telephone number.

Completion of the nomination form (online).

Role of the Selection Committee

It is the objective of the Selection Committee to review the nominations in accordance with the criteria for nomination. The goal of the Selection Committee is to identify the strongest nomination. The committee will seek consensus on the nominations that best reflect the spirit of the award.

The Selection Committee will consist of the following:
• Vice-President (Research)
• Associate Vice-President (Research)
• Provost or delegate
• Representative from the Deans and Directors group
• Representative from the Office of Research Ethics

The information on this form is collected under the authority of the Memorial University Act (RSNL 1990 Chapter M-7) and is needed for and will be used to assess the nomination of the Marilyn Harvey Award to Recognize the Importance of Research Ethics. If you have any questions regarding the collection and use of this information contact the Manager, Awards and Honours, at 709-864-2651.