Human Subjects (IRB)

The IRB is charged with reviewing and monitoring human subjects' research conducted under the auspices of Ohio University. Human subjects research is any project that meets both the federal definitions of "research" and "human subjects." Human subjects research conducted by Ohio University faculty, staff, or students is subject to IRB review or, when appropriate, a determination by the Office of Research Compliance that the research meets the criteria for an exempt category.  

For projects that meet the definition of human subjects research, you must receive an IRB approval or exempt determination before you may begin your research activities.  

Research is defined as a systematic investigation, including research development, testing, and evaluation, designed to develop or contribute to generalizable knowledge.  

Human subject is defined as a living individual about whom an investigator conducting research: 

(i) Obtains information or biospecimens through intervention or interaction with the individual, and uses, studies, or analyzes the information or biospecimens; or 

(ii) Obtains, uses, studies, analyzes, or generates identifiable private information or identifiable biospecimens. 

To submit for IRB review or an exempt determination, please make a new study submission in Cayuse.  

If you need additional guidance, please contact us at compliance@ohio.edu 

All researchers who conduct human subjects research must complete the required training https://www.ohio.edu/research/compliance/training