1.3 The Role of the IRB

The IRB is charged with two principal responsibilities:

1. Determine and certify that all research protocols conform to the regulations and policies set forth by DHHS regarding the health, welfare, safety, rights, and privileges of human subjects; and
2. Assist investigators in conducting ethical research that complies with federal and other regulations in a way that permits the accomplishment of the research activity.

The IRB meets these responsibilities through a review of applications submitted by principal investigators, negotiations between the IRB and investigators for approval of research, and IRB outreach to the research community. The process of review serves to ensure the safe and ethical conduct of research that ultimately will protect the rights and welfare of human subjects. The dignity and welfare of individuals who participate in research must be a central concern of everyone involved with the protection of human subjects. The college, and all faculty, staff and student investigators share in the collective responsibility for the ethical conduct of research.

This collaboration of the research community must operate in a culture of trust, mutual assurance, and integrity by upholding the highest ethical principles in the conduct of research and the pursuit of knowledge.