Apply for Approval

How do you apply for approval?

All human subjects research proposals require review by the IRB. All applications contain submission directions on the form and should be submitted to [email protected]. Student researchers must have a faculty advisor who will be the Lead Investigator within the DASH Research IRB system. Please see the DASH Research IRB page for more information.

NOTE: This process will be changing in November, 2025. Stay tuned for more information and training opportunities.

New Applications

Step #1: Determine the appropriate level of review. Reference the Exemption Category Definition Sheet and the Exemption Category Determination Flow Chart to see if your research project qualifies for Exempt review under the Federal Regulations.

Step #2: Ensure all listed investigators have completed the required CITI training course for human subjects research. For more information, see our IRB Training page.

Step #3: Complete the Protocol Application Form and any relevant study documents such as consent form(s), surveys or interview questions, recruitment materials, and any site approval documents. Proceed to DASH Research IRB to submit the application. Directions on using DASH Research IRB can be found here.

Requesting Changes and Annual Renewals (Approved Protocols)

For researchers needing to make changes to, extend the end date of, or add/remove personnel to their existing approved protocols, please submit a Continuing Review or Modification Request in DASH Research IRB. For a step-by-step guidance document on the continuing review and modification request process, see our user guide.

Classroom Research not covered by IRB review

Research Methods courses often involve students conducting surveys or other research activities that are not designed to contribute to generalizable knowledge. These research activities are not considered regulated human subjects research and do not require IRB review. Projects that fall under this category must not be used for publication, either in a journal or by presentation at a conference (poster presentations, etc.). If students in research methods courses wish to publish the results of their research, they should submit an IRB application before beginning their research. If you have any questions about whether your or your students’ research activities fall under IRB review, please reach out to the IRB Administrator.