How should we justify charging indirect costs of an additional $650 to industry sponsors who are balking at $2500?
A. The indirect cost funds are never directly earmarked for the UMN IRB, and the indirect cost rate approved by the federal government only allows for certain pre-established exclusions such as rent, subawards over $25,000, and capital outlays. Yet, business and industry sponsored clinical trials are some of the most complex and resource demanding research reviewed by the UMN IRB. The practice of an IRB fee is consistent with the policies of peer institutions and the funds will allow the University to continue providing through, timely reviews.
