Initial Review ~ Continuing Review

Initial Review: Guidance and Forms

There are four application forms for initial review: one for the analysis of existing data, one to apply for a screening for exemption, and one that can be used for both expedited and full review. Read the following descriptions, look over the guidance provided, and then select the appropriate form.

The fourth form is for undergraduate students and students who plan to conduct research abroad. For student researchers abroad, the form is for use by both graduate and undergraduate students and should be used no matter what type of review is most appropriate for the research.

Secondary Analysis of Existing Data

There is a special form to use if your research is limited to the analysis of existing data. There is one form for all three kinds of review (exempt, expedited, full) First read:

Guidance: Defining Existing Data and Determining the Type of Review Required for Secondary Analysis

Then fill out the form, checking the type of review you are requesting in the appropriate space at the top.

The Form: Request for Protocol Approval for
Secondary Analysis of Existing Data

Exempt Research

Most research in the social and behavioral sciences is eligible for screening for exemption, currently over 50%.

Eligible activities include surveys, interviews, focus groups and other common methodologies in the social and behavioral sciences. However, there are criteria other than research methodology and various restriction placed on the use of exemptions.

Guidance: The FAQs about Exempt Research will help you determine if your research is eligible. If you have any questions, contact the IRB staff.

The Form: Request for a Screening for Exemption

Expedited Research

Many of the same activities eligible for exemption are also eligible for expedited review. The primary difference is the level of risk. Exempt research must be inherently risk free. Expedited review is used when the level of risk increases and needs to be managed in some way, such a through the use of confidentiality procedures.

Guidance: The FAQs about Expedited Review are provided to help you determine if, when your research does not meet the criteria for exemption, it can be expedited.

The Form: Request for Protocol Approval

Full Review

If research is not eligible for a screening for exemption or expeditd review, it must be reviewed by the convened IRB. Examples of research requiring full review include:

1. Research that poses more than minimal risk of harm.
2. Reseach involving deception.
3. Research in which investigatars propose to use their own subjects or employees as research subjects.

The Form: Request for Protocol Approval

Undergraduate Student Research and Students Conducting Research Abroad

Undergraduate student researchers often need more guidance in their first efforts to seek approval for research with human subjects.

Conducting research abroad requires researchers to address unique considerations regarding the rights and welfare of potential subjects.

We have developed a compact website that includes first steps, the application form, guidance in writing consent forms and recording releases, samples, and other resources.

The Website: Undergraduate Student Research and Student Research Abroad

Amending and Renewing Approved Protocols: Guidance and Forms

Amending an Approved Protocol

Guidance: Amending a Protocol

Form: Request to Amend an Approved Protocol

Renewing an Approved Protocol

Guidance: Continuing Review

Form: Request to Renew an Approved Protocol