Fort Lewis College

Institutional Review Board

The  Institutional Review Board (IRB) is an administrative body established by the College to implement the Code of Federal Regulations Established by the Office of Health and Human Services which provides guidance in protecting the rights and welfare of human subjects involved in research.  The code of federal regulations guiding IRB policy can be found here: 45 CFR 46. The Institutional Review Board is assigned the task of providing information and establishing policies and procedures necessary to insure that human subjects  participating in research activities conducted by faculty, staff and students at Fort Lewis College are protected from undue risks and deprivation of personal rights and dignity.

In accordance with the Code of Federal Regulations the IRB has the authority to approve, require modifications in, or disapprove all research activities that fall within its jurisdiction as specified by both the federal regulations and local institutional policy.  

Human subject research may fall into one of three categories: exempt, expedite review, and full review. Preliminarily determine the type of review for which your project would qualify (the final determination rests with the IRB and any project may be referred to the IRB for full review at a regularly convened meeting).  If you have questions about the type of review for which your project will qualify, call an IRB representative.

What Research Requires Review?

The application packets provide information and instructions on how to have your research reviewed by the IRB.  They also provide you with a link to download the application and informed consent (if necessary) to send electronically to the IRB. A complete and thorough application helps to expedite the application.

APPLICATION PACKETS

(if you are unsure of which packet to use click here)

    Exemption:  Use this packet if you are conducting research which you believe is Exempt from IRB review

              Full Review and Expedited Review:  Use this packet for applications requiring full or expedited review

              Change of Status / Annual Continuing Review / Final Report

QUESTIONS? Contact the Institutional Review Board