The Impact of a Research Ethics Training Program: Romania as a Case Study

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Bioethics Education
• International Research Collaboration

Background:

• The Fogarty International Center-funded Training Program in International Research Ethics at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) has operated in Romania since 2000.
• The program aimed to build capacity in research ethics within Romania through diverse educational and collaborative components.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of CWRU's international research ethics training program on the field of bioethics in Romania.
• To assess the program's contributions to academic development and research ethics infrastructure.

Main Methods:

• Program evaluation involved a survey of long-term trainees.
• A literature search for publications by trainees was conducted.
• Key informant interviews and identification of program milestones were utilized.

Main Results:

• Trainees produced peer-reviewed publications, books, and book chapters, significantly contributing to bioethics literature.
• Trainee career paths evolved to include substantial research ethics activities.
• The program facilitated the establishment of a Master's degree in bioethics and a Center of Bioethics and Health Policy in Romania.

Conclusions:

• The CWRU training program has demonstrably enhanced bioethics in Romania through academic output and institutional development.
• Strong international and local partnerships, a robust theoretical foundation, and sustained commitment were key to the program's success.
• The program's impact highlights the effectiveness of international collaboration in building research ethics capacity.