What should an IRB member do if they have a potential conflict of interest with a study under review?

In the context of an Institutional Review Board (IRB), it is essential for members to maintain integrity and impartiality when evaluating research studies. If an IRB member has a potential conflict of interest regarding a study, the appropriate course of action is to disclose this conflict to the rest of the board and to recuse themselves from voting on that particular study. This ensures that the decision-making process remains unbiased and that the rights and welfare of research participants are protected.

Recusing themselves from voting after disclosure is critical because it prevents any impartiality in the evaluation and approval processes of the study. Conflicts of interest could arise from financial ties, personal relationships, or other interests that might influence the IRB member's judgment. Therefore, by disclosing and recusing themselves, the member upholds ethical standards and fosters trust in the IRB's review process, ensuring that all decisions are made based solely on the merits of the research and its potential impact on participants.

This approach aligns with best practices in research ethics, safeguarding the IRB's credibility and the ethical integrity of the research conducted under its purview.