When might an IRB member need to recuse themselves from a review?

An IRB member must recuse themselves from a review when they have a personal interest in the outcome of the research. This is critical in order to maintain the integrity of the review process and to ensure that decisions are made based on the welfare of the research participants and the ethical considerations of the study, rather than personal biases or stakes in the outcome.

Personal interests can create conflicts of interest that can undermine the objectivity required in the review process. Recusal prevents any potential biases from influencing the IRB's evaluation of the research proposal, thereby upholding ethical standards.

While disagreements over research methodology and prior experience with the research topic may influence an IRB member's perspective, they do not necessarily compromise objectivity. Moreover, being part of the research team would create a direct conflict of interest, necessitating recusal as well. However, the clearest scenario requiring recusal to preserve impartiality lies within having personal stakes in the outcome.