Federal Law requires that all Research on Human Subjects done at Carleton by faculty, students, and staff be approved in advance by the IRB. This is done by submitting a formal application before research begins. If you are not affiliated with Carleton, please contact the Chair of the IRB (gmarflee@carleton.edu) for instructions.

If you have not already done so, see our IRB Quiz (Does My Project Require an IRB Application?) to confirm whether the procedure below is required.

What Must Be Included?

Your formal application to the IRB must include:

• IRB Application Form
• Consent Form
• Additional documents, if applicable (see the Attachments section of the IRB Application for a list of supporting documents that may be required)

How Do I Submit These Materials?

Once you've prepared your documents and saved them on your computer, you should submit them electronically to the IRB by using our online IRB Application System.

As of August 2006, all IRB applications by Carleton students, faculty or staff must be submitted via the new online system. The IRB will no longer accept paper applications.

Make sure to save a backup copy of all documents for your records.

For Students:

After you submit your online application, your research advisor will receive an email requesting that he or she review the application. Your advisor must review and approve it online before your application is complete and can be reviewed by the IRB. Be sure to communicate with your advisor to be sure he or she reviews it promptly.

What Happens Next?

Complete applications are processed on Thursday's at 5:00 p.m. Forms submitted days other than Thursday will be held until the following Thursday. Within 10 days after processing, the IRB will send an e-mail to the researcher to notify you of approval, or request additional information.

For more details, see I've Applied--Now What?