What is a research board?

A research board, also sometimes called a review board, ethics committee, or Institutional Review Board (IRB) in the context of human subjects research, is a group of people who review and approve research proposals before the research can begin. Their purpose is to ensure the research is ethically sound, scientifically rigorous, and protects the rights and well-being of participants (if applicable).

The specific composition and responsibilities of a research board vary depending on the type of research, the institution conducting the research, and the funding source. However, some common characteristics include:

* Ethical oversight: They assess the ethical implications of the research, ensuring informed consent is obtained, risks are minimized, and benefits outweigh the potential harms.

* Scientific merit: They evaluate the scientific rigor of the research design, methodology, and analysis plan. They may assess the feasibility and potential impact of the research.

* Compliance with regulations: They ensure the research complies with relevant laws, regulations, and institutional policies, including those related to data privacy and confidentiality.

* Membership: Members often have diverse backgrounds and expertise, including scientists, ethicists, community representatives, and legal professionals. This diversity ensures a multi-faceted review.

* Decision-making: They typically review proposals and make decisions about whether to approve, reject, or require modifications to the research.

In short, a research board acts as a gatekeeper, ensuring that research is conducted responsibly and ethically.