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The IRB reviews research projects which involve human subjects to ensure that two broad standards are upheld: first, that subjects are not placed at undue risk; second, that they give uncoerced, informed consent to their participation.
With representation from a wide range of scientific disciplines and from outside the academic community, the IRB gives rapid but individualized attention to the numerous research projects at the University.
A project is first reviewed in its proposal stage - even before subjects are recruited. Each approved project is reevaluated at least annually. The IRB works with investigators to modify projects to ensure adequate protection for its subjects' welfare and right of self-determination.
The Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP) oversees the operation of the IRB, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) enforces regulations for the use of experimental drugs and devices.
GWU IRB Jurisdiction
The GW IRBs are responsible for the review of all research activities that involve human subjects, whether directly or indirectly. In addition, the Director of the Office for the Office for Human Research (OHR) is responsible for reviewing all these research activities that qualify for exemption from, or waiver of IRB review, as outlined in the federal guidelines
This applies to any such activity performed on the premises of the George Washington University or its constituent institutions and to any such activity performed elsewhere by faculty, students, or employees under the auspices of the George Washington University.
Other institutions may rely upon the GW IRBs if an executed agreement is in effect between the participating institutions. Occasionally, the GW IRB will rely on another institution’s IRB. The decision to do so is the responsibility of the Associate Vice President of Research.
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Composition of the IRB Committees
The IRB is composed of more than 40 members representing University faculty, staff, students, Medical Faculty Associate (MFA) and George Washington University Hospital employees and the local community.
The IRB is comprised of two independent review committees and a third, executive committee, comprised of chairs and vice-chairs of the other two panels. Each committee meets monthly to review human subjects research and related issues.
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IRB – Committee & Function
01 - Second Tuesday of every month, Daniel Lieberman, MD
The committee reviews research in the health and biological sciences & reviews research in the social and behavioral sciences.
02 - Fourth Tuesday of every month, Daniel Lieberman, MD
The committee reviews research in the health and biological sciences & reviews research in the social and behavioral sciences.
03 – Executive Committee
This committee meets one per month to discuss policies, procedures, and address problems that arise in human subjects protection.
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