Ethics in Research
Quality research should be conducted with integrity. To help meet this goal, federal and university regulations require that all research projects involving human subjects and materials of human origin be reviewed and approved by an institutional review board (IRB) before initiation.
In addition, all scientists, research technicians, animal technicians, and other personnel involved in animal care, treatment, and use need to be aware of their responsibilities as dictated by the Animal Welfare Act.
What is an IRB?
The institutional review board was established at Michigan State "to protect the rights, welfare and privacy of human subjects who participate in research conducted by students and/or faculty affiliated with MSU" (IRB mission statement).
Who needs it?
Any research that involves human subjects or human material (e.g. human tissue or blood) must receive IRB approval before any data collection occurs. A human subject is defined as "a living individual whom an investigator (whether professional or student) conducting research obtains (1) data through intervention or interaction with the individual, or (2) identifiable private information." (Code of Federal Regulations, 45CFR46.102). Research projects that require IRB approval include interviews, mail or telephone surveys, the use of existing data (e.g. surveys, biological materials of human origin), interventions, etc. For details on how MSU IRB policies apply to undergraduate student research, see "Student Classroom Research" in Section 6-9-A of the MSU Human Research Protection Manual located on the IRB webpage.
MSU faculty (and students as co-investigators) can apply for IRB approval online at the "Application/Forms" section of the IRB webpage.
Depending on the nature of the project, it can take 10-15 days or longer to receive approval. The IRB recommends that you apply at least 1 month before you would like to start collecting data to ensure the process is complete. Remember, you CANNOT start collecting any data until you have received approval. The committee that reviews your research project will be considering factors such as (a) risk/benefit ratio, (b) selection of subjects, (c) informed consent, (d) privacy, confidentiality, and anonymity. (e) incentives for participation, and (f) potential for conflicts of interest (IRB, website). Upon approval from IRB, you will receive a number confirming your approval.
If you have any questions regarding the IRB process, we recommend that you speak with your mentor and/or refer to the IRB webpage or contact the IRB staff at 355-2180. We appreciate your cooperation to continue providing the community with research that not only advances their knowledge but is also ethical.
