IRB Resources
IRBManager Online Submission for Applications to Use Information from Humans in Research
The IRB online application submission system in IRBManager is ready for use. Below are links to instructions. Contact Robin Broussard if you need assistance.
Login Instructions and Dashboard Overview
IRBManager Tips and Tricks - navigating your dashboard
Application IRBManager Tips and Tricks
Creating a Modification of an Approved Application
Adding a Collaborator to Assist with Application Writing
Checking Application Review Status
Safe Resumption of Face to Face Human Subjects Research
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Institutional Review Board continues to operate remotely. As the University continues operations (see the University's requirements for returning to research), the IRB is encouraging safe re-engagement of human subjects in research involving interpersonal, face-to-face interactions. Human Subject research will closely follow the University’s phased return guidelines (Return-to-Workplace Guide) based on maintaining proper social distancing, the availability of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and cleaning and disinfecting supplies.
Research utilizing remote procedures is preferred during the COVID19 pandemic. Researchers who plan to engage or re-engage human subjects for research involving in-person interactions will need to include methods for mitigating SARS-CoV-2 transmission in their applications or amendments to a previously approved application. Amendments to previously approved applications should be made in the context of the approved application. The information needs to include realistic timeline expectations (including the IRB review and approval), thorough assessment of risks, and description of safety plans (social distancing via time and space, mask wearing, disinfection of equipment) that align with the CDC Reopening Guide. Contact the IRB at irb@louisiana.edu for questions regarding resumption of human subjects research and changes to approved research.
Data Collection and Storage
Google Forms and Google Drive cannot be used.
The Google Drive Terms of Service specifically states it cannot be used for business. In addition the Google Privacy Policy states, "We also collect the content you create, upload, or receive from others when using our services. This includes things like email you write and receive, photos and videos you save, docs and spreadsheets you create, and comments you make on YouTube videos." This does not align with keeping information confidential; which is a requirement for human subject research.
Qualtrics and OneDrive can be used.
UL Lafayette provides access to Qualtrics for survey and form creation and OneDrive for secure storage of electronic files that can be accessed from Home or Office. The owner of the file can share the file with any designated University person. These are the Universities prefered methods of the data collection and electronic storage. Flash drives, portable hard drives, laptops or home computers should not be used to store data. Data stored in these devices or on home computers is more likely to lost or stolen than data stored in computers that remain on campus or accessed via OneDrive or VPN. To learn more about these resources, see the IT help page on OneDrive or request a Qualtrics account. Contact the IRB if you cannot adhere to these standards. Justification for the deviation will be required.
Training
IRB Information for Graduate Students
Useful Links
Am I doing Human Subjects Research NIH Questionnaire? Note - determinations of "exempt from federal regulations" must be made by the IRB. Please submit an application.
Subjects with Questionable Capacity to Consent
Research with Vulnerable Populations
Guidance for de-identifying data
Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP)
OHRP Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Current Federal Policies for the Protection of Human Subjects
OHRP Guidelines for Research on Stem and Germ Cells
Federal Office of Research Integrity
Guide to Handling Scientific Misconduct
International Compilation of Human Subject Protections (2010)