Does the IRB/human subject protection guidance also apply to studies conducted by students?
A. Yes. The definition of research in the Federal regulations includes all research. However, the review process varies across institutions. If a “survey” is done for a class project, does not include vulnerable populations, is minimal risk, and will not be presented or published (e.g., as a thesis or scholarly paper), then some IRBs do not define the work as research and do not require formal review. Other IRBs review all student projects, including classroom demonstration projects. Therefore, it is important to review your institutional policies and to provide adequate time for preparation of applications and review when planning student projects.
Related Questions
- Does the IRB/human subject protection guidance also apply to pilot studies, questionnaire development, and testing efforts conducted with members of the population?
- Does the IRB/human subject protection guidance also apply to studies conducted by students?
- Do research projects conducted by Cornell students need IRB approval?
