Full committee review is the standard review process for the approval of research involving human subjects when a study does not qualify for an Exempt determination or Expedited review or studies that could potentially be greater than minimal risk to participants. Research protocols that require review by the fully convened IRB will be placed on the agenda for the next scheduled IRB meeting, which occurs on a monthly basis. All IRB committee members review each study or information item placed on the agenda for the convened meeting. The entire IRB committee present at the meeting discusses the protocol and related study documents and votes for approval, modification, deferral, or disapproval.

The IRB cannot approve a protocol unless:

• risks to subjects are minimized;
• risks to subjects are reasonable in relation to anticipated benefits;
• selection of subjects is equitable;
• informed consent is adequate and appropriately documented;
• where appropriate, the research plan makes adequate provision for monitoring the data collected to ensure the safety of subjects;
• where appropriate, there are adequate provisions to protect the privacy of subjects and to maintain the confidentiality of data; and
• appropriate safeguards have been included to protect vulnerable subjects.

Click here for the protocol application form. Click here to apply for full review online.

Updated 4/11/2024