Protection of Human Subjects in Research

A graduate or doctoral student preparing to conduct research involving the use of human subjects must secure approval from the Judson University Institutional Review Board prior to undertaking the research. Undergraduate students conducting research should work with their instructor to determine what oversight is required.

The Judson University Institutional Review Board (IRB) policy requires, and therefore maintains primary responsibility for, oversight to that researchers respect and protect the rights and welfare of human subjects recruited for, or participating in, research sponsored through Judson University. The Judson University IRB is guided by the principles set forth by the Belmont Report in accordance with Title 45 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 46 (45 CFR 46). Furthermore, the Judson University IRB conforms to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

The major roles of IRB in the oversight of research are as follows:

1. Initial review and approval or denial of the proposed research activity
2. Ensuring that the proposed informed consent process meets all of the requirements of 45 CFR 46.116, a legally-effective, voluntary agreement that is given by a prospective research participant following comprehension and consideration of all relevant information pertinent to the decision to participate in a study
3. Providing continuing oversight for progress reports and protocols for ongoing research studies