OVCRGE welcomes human subjects program
IRBs are charged with overseeing research involving human subjects, such as this study in the Infant Learning Lab at UW–Madison’s Waisman Center. Photo: Andy Manis
The Education and Social Behavioral Science (ED/SBS) Institutional Review Board (IRB) has a new home in the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Education (OVCRGE).
“We are excited to welcome the ED/SBS staff and IRB as we strive to enhance research support while reducing administrative burden on campus,” says Marsha Mailick, vice chancellor for research and graduate education. “This transition will promote a closer working relationship and collaboration between our human subjects protection program and the IRB.”
The ED/SBS IRB reviews human research protocols in accordance with federal regulations, state laws, accreditation bodies, and local and university policies. The IRB is composed of faculty and staff from various disciplines within the education, social and behavioral sciences, as well as community members.
The OVCRGE sought consultation from university governance groups and the campus leadership in determining the most appropriate administrative home for the board.
“Housing the ED/SBS IRB in the office of research is consistent with the model prevailing at UW–Madison peer institutions,” says Nadine Connor, associate vice chancellor for research policy and compliance.
The ED/SBS IRB has a staff of five and reviews over 2,000 minimal-risk human subjects protocols each year. Its offices will remain at Lathrop Hall and its contact information also remains the same. All joint working groups presently active among the IRBs will continue.
“We are very thankful to staff in the College of Letters & Science and the School of Education for their efforts in making this a smooth transition,” Mailick says.