Institutional Research Board @ SCSU
STUDENTS: YOUR PROJECT MAY NOT REQUIRE IRB REVIEW! Before completing an application, see IRB guidelines regarding STUDENT RESEARCH and consult your instructor/faculty sponsor.
When must I submit an application to the IRB and why?
St. Cloud State University requires all research activities involving human subjects—whether or not they are supported by Federal funds—to comply with the Federal Policy for the Protection of Human Subjects (45 CFR 46). According to this policy, research activities that intervene in people’s lives, observe human behavior, or use data obtained directly or indirectly from living individuals must be reviewed and approved by an Institutional Review Board to ensure that:
- risks to subjects will be minimized and reasonable in relation to anticipated benefits;
- informed consent will be obtained from subjects and appropriately documented; and
- the privacy and safety of subjects will be maintained.
The policy defines research as any systematic investigation designed to develop or contribute to generalizeable knowledge. If you are an SCSU faculty member, staff member, or graduate student conducting research, you must submit an application to SCSU’s IRB and receive written approval before you can begin recruiting human subjects.
How will my application be reviewed?
Full Review
- Research involves more than minimal risk.
- The full IRB reviews the application during a regularly scheduled meeting.
- The application must be submitted two weeks before a meeting. Meetings are held biweekly at noon in AS212. Researchers are encouraged to attend their application review.
Expedited Review
- Research falls within one or more of the expedited categories outlined on the Review Worksheet (found within the IRB application) and involves no more than minimal risk.
- A subcommittee of the IRB reviews the application—usually within 5 to 10 days of submission.
Exempt Review
- Research falls within one or more of the exempt categories oulined on the Review Worksheet (found within the IRB application) and involves no more than minimal risk.
- Exempt status MUST be determined by a subcommittee of the IRB—usually within 7 days of submission.
What else should I know about completing and submitting my application?
Some individuals reviewing your application may be unfamiliar with your field, so present information clearly without jargon and define technical terms. Also, avoid delays in the process by answering questions completely, providing requested documentation, and signing the certification page.
Please submit your ORIGINAL application and materials to AS210; and remember to keep a copy your completed application for future reference.
