What is the primary role of an IRB?

The primary role of an Institutional Review Board (IRB) is to ensure the ethical treatment of research participants. This involves reviewing research proposals to safeguard the rights and welfare of individuals participating in research. The IRB evaluates factors such as informed consent, risks and benefits, and the overall integrity of the research design. By focusing on ethical standards, the IRB helps protect vulnerable populations and maintains public trust in the research process.

This function is vital because it establishes a systematic approach to addressing ethical considerations in research, ensuring that participant well-being is prioritized while advancing scientific knowledge.