Student Researchers

The principal investigator conducting research has the primary responsibility of assuring that the rights and welfare of the human participants / individuals involved in research are protected.

SAU students who wish to do research involving human participants must:

• Have a faculty sponsor.    
• Complete an explanation of their intended research (using the Research Proposal Form) and have it reviewed and signed by their faculty sponsor prior to submission to the IRB.    
• Submit the complete application for review to the IRB.    
• Address all IRB required changes or revisions, and receive an IRB approval letter/number, prior to engaging in any research activities or pilot studies.

It is the responsibility of the principal investigators and faculty sponsors to inform themselves about the requirements of the review process and to present the material in good order. The IRB requires that all investigators complete a training in ethical research. The NIH offers an on-line tutorial training on this subject.

The IRB will determine whether or not the research meets St. Ambrose University policy guidelines. Projects are approved for a one (1) year period. Researchers are required to submit a status report either upon completion of a project, or within one year of approval, whichever comes first. Ongoing projects require annual submission of a status report.

The Board usually meets twice a month during the fall and spring semesters, plus one meeting during the summer. Proposals for review should be submitted electronically to the IRB Chair at least two weeks prior to the meeting date. See the Institutional Research Board News and Events page for more details.