Institutional Review Board (IRB)

Research using human subjects is governed by federal and UNH policies. PIs/PDs are responsible for obtaining approval from the Institutional Review Board (IRB) if their research involves human subjects, regardless of the type of sponsor. Any research involving human subjects must be approved by the IRB before the research may begin, even if funding has been approved by a sponsor. Application forms are available online or by contacting the UNH OSR Research Integrity Services Manager (RIS).

Human Subjects

How is it determined if research involves human subjects? A research project that collects data about a living human being is considered to involve human subjects. UNH policy defines a human subject as:

A living individual about whom an investigator (whether professional or student) conducting research obtains (1) data through intervention or interaction with the individual, or (2) identifiable private information.

Web-based Training

PIs/PDs or other individuals who will work with human subjects should complete UNH’s Web-based training on the use of human subjects in research.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) will NOT release funds for awarded projects involving human subjects until key personnel have demonstrated that they have completed training on the use of human subjects in research. For additional information visit Training in Human Subjects.

Additional Help

For additional information visit the IRB’s webpage or contact OSR’s RIS Manager.