Research plans that propose the use of living human subjects, tissues or materials from living humans, or data on humans must be reviewed and approved, or granted exemption, by the IRB before the research begins. This includes all research at Tufts University, regardless of funding source, whether conducted by members of the faculty, students, fellows, administrators, or others, across all departments and campuses.

What Requires Review?

Are you conducting Research?

• If yes, continue.
• If no, no review required.

Is your research systematic?

• If yes, continue.
• If no, no review required.

Is your research generalizable?

• If yes, continue.
• If no, no review required.

Are your human subjects living?

• If yes, continue.
• If no, no review required.

Are you conducting an intervention/interaction or are you collecting private information?

• If yes, Review is Required.
• If no, no review required.

Full, Expedited or Exempt Review?

If your research requires review, you may not require a full review.

Does your research meet any Exempt Categories?

• You may be able to apply for Exempt Review.

Does your research involve Minimal Risk?

• You may be able to apply for Expedited Review.

If neither of these apply, your research requires a Full Review

• Learn more about Full Review
• View IRB meeting dates and deadlines