Message from the IRB Director: Welcome back to a new academic year! Whether you’re launching a new study, onboarding student researchers, or continuing existing projects, the IRB is here to support your work. We look forward to partnering with you to promote ethical research and protect the rights and welfare of research participants. We are wishing you a successful semester of discovery and innovation.
A few reminders to get your semester off on the right foot:
👉 Investigator’s Statement of Assurance: What PI’s Need to Know
If it’s been a while since you’ve read through your responsibilities as Principal Investigator, we encourage you to take a few minutes to carefully review the Statement of Assurance.
When submitting an IRB application through ERICA, Principal Investigators certify that the information provided is accurate and accept responsibility for the ethical conduct of the study, protection of research participants, and compliance with all IRB requirements and applicable regulations.
This includes:
- Ensuring study personnel are properly trained
- Obtaining informed consent,
- Maintaining required records
- Reporting adverse events and protocol changes, and
- Keeping IRB approvals current throughout the life of the study.
The Statement of Assurance serves as a reminder that the PI is ultimately accountable for the oversight, integrity, and regulatory compliance of all human subjects research conducted under their direction.
⏰ Know Before You Submit: IRB Review Timelines
The University of Utah IRB convenes at least weekly, with up to 12 board meetings each month to review new studies, amendments, continuing reviews, and reportable events. To keep projects moving efficiently, applications must be complete, include all required documents, and have any necessary ancillary reviews underway before they can be assigned for board review.
Current estimated timelines for complete submissions are 6 to 8 weeks for new studies and approximately 5 weeks for amendments and continuing reviews.
Investigators can track the status of their applications in ERICA, and should note that review timelines do not include time spent awaiting investigator revisions or ancillary committee approvals.
🤝 Need Help with Your IRB Submission? Join Office Hours!
Have a question about the IRB process, application requirements, consent procedures, or review timelines? The University of Utah IRB hosts virtual Office Hours every Thursday from 10:00-10:30 a.m. MT, providing a convenient opportunity for researchers and study teams to connect directly with IRB staff.
No appointment is necessary, and participants are seen on a first-come, first-served basis.
Whether you’re preparing a new submission, or looking for guidance on IRB requirements, Office Hours are a great place to get answers and clarify next steps. Each consultation lasts up to 15 minutes, so come prepared with your questions.
Please note that staff cannot review applications or provide feedback on study design during these sessions.