Do you need to apply for IRB approval to conduct your research?

1. Will your research involve collecting data or observations from human subjects (participants) or analyzing data generated by studying human subjects?
  • If yes, then please proceed to the next question.
  • If no, then IRB review is not required. You may exit the questionnaire. 
Will your research be based entirely upon a study of historical documents, archives, or artifacts that are more than 70 years old?
  • If yes, then IRB review is not required. You may exit the questionnaire.
  • If no, then please proceed to the next question. 
Will your research be based entirely upon existing records or previously acquired specimens that do not have any personal identifying information attached?

“Existing” and “previously acquired” means that the records or specimens already exist and are not being collected in connection with this research.

  • If yes, then IRB review is not required. You may exit the questionnaire.
  • If no, then please proceed to the next question. 
Will your research be based entirely upon material or information that is already publicly available?
  • If yes, then IRB review is not required. You may exit the questionnaire.
  • If no, then please proceed to the next question. 
Will the results of your research be publicly disseminated?

Public dissemination includes, but is not limited to, thesis, professional conference presentation held on or off campus (poster or oral presentation), journal article or book publication, or grant application.

  • If yes, then IRB review is required. Please exit the questionnaire and submit the required application to the IRB for review.
  • If no, then please proceed to the next question. 
Will your research involve participants who are considered to be a “special population”?

Special populations include, but are not limited to, individuals who are either incapable or legally unable to grant informed consent for their own participation (such as persons with certain mental disabilities or persons under age 18), prisoners, or undocumented immigrants.

  • If yes, then IRB review is required. Please exit the questionnaire and submit the required application to the IRB for review.
  • If no, then please proceed to the next question. 
Will your research involve sensitive topics?

Sensitive topics include, but are not limited to, drug or alcohol use or sexual experiences.

  • If yes, then IRB review is required. Please exit the questionnaire and submit the required application to the IRB for review.
  • If no, then IRB review is probably not required.

 

 

Learn More

Please contact the IRB if you would like to discuss your particular project or if you have questions about the possible need for IRB review. You may reach the IRB Chairperson by email at irb@eastern.edu.