Protecting Human Subjects Through Institutional Review Boards

All institutions applying for federal research funds must have Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) with clearly defined policies and procedures ensuring that grant-funded research activities protect human subjects. Upon being awarded federal funds, principal investigators and/or project directors whose activities involve research on human subjects must complete required forms and submit the project for IRB review and approval before any research on human subjects is allowed to commence.

IRB Committee Meetings

The Institutional Review Board conducts its meetings on an as needed basis, but at least once a year.  Any proposals requiring full review must be submitted no later than fifteen (15) working days prior to when the review is needed. Forms may be found on the related downloads page under "Institutional Review Board." If you have questions about the IRB, please contact Spencer Wagley  (IRB Chair).

Important Links

• The online version of the Code of Federal Regulations (45 CFR Part 46) is user-friendly and allows you to search for particular topics.
• The Institutional Review Board Guide Book by the Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Human Research Protections.
• National Institutes of Health (NIH)
• The Belmont Report (PDF) can be found in the related downloads under Institutional Review Board.

Institutional Review Board Training

Federal regulations require IRB committee member training. IRB members can follow the links (below) to complete training at the time of their appointment. IRB members must then submit a copy of the certificate to the IRB Chair indicating they have completed human subjects training that will be forwarded to the Human Resources Department at Trinity Valley Community College to be kept in the personnel file..

Sources of IRB training and information:

• National Institute of Health - training and information