IRB Meeting Schedule and Protocol Submission Deadlines:
Human subjects research proposals are reviewed via one of three processes: “exempt”, “expedited”, or “full”. “Exempt” and “Expedited” review is possible with certain categories of research (as specified in the federal regulations) and may be reviewed outside of the full IRB committee by one or more experienced IRB members (generally the IRB Chair). Protocols that do not qualify for exempt or expedited review must be reviewed by the full IRB committee at a convened meeting.
- For full review, the deadline for protocol submission is the first Tuesday of each month. IRB committee meetings are scheduled approximately 2 weeks following the monthly submission dates. The exact meeting dates are based on committee member schedules and are therefore variable from semester to semester. The IRB Committee does not generally meet during the Summer months. If you anticipate conducting research during the Summer, you must submit your protocols by the May deadline.
- Expedited and Exempt protocols are reviewed in the order received; there are no deadlines for these protocols. Please note that "expedited" refers to the fact that it is not subject to review by the full committee, but does not guarantee a fast approval process. Please turn in your IRB applications as early as possible before the anticipated start date.
All IRB submissions should be submitted to irb@utpa.edu with all appropriate documents (see IRB Application Requirements).
NOTICE:
If your research is dependent on being funded by an internal or external grant:
To reduce the workload of Institutional Review Boards, many granting agencies do not need IRB approval at the time of proposal submission, but are likely to require it prior to release of award monies. Check with your granting agency about when IRB approval must be submitted. If your proposed research is contingent on grant funding, we ask that you submit an IRB application after having been granted your award.
