The Georgia Southern University Institutional Review Board (IRB) oversees research involving human subjects to ensure ethical practices, regulatory compliance, and participant protection. Projects are reviewed under different categories depending on the level of risk, study population, and type of research activity.
Understanding which review type applies to your project is essential for timely approval and compliance with federal, state, and university requirements. Below you’ll find the different IRB review types and supporting tools available to researchers.
Types of IRB Review
- Amendment Form – Submit protocol modifications, updated applications, or revised consent forms for approved studies.
- Continuing Review & Terminations – Annual renewals for expedited and full board projects, or termination of completed studies.
- Exempt Review Types – Research activities that may qualify for exemption under federal guidelines.
- Expedited Review – Studies involving minimal risk and minor modifications to previously approved projects.
- Full Board Review – Required for research involving greater than minimal risk, vulnerable populations, or complex protocols.
- International Research Review – Guidance for studies conducted outside the U.S. or involving foreign collaborators.
- Medical Board Review – For research involving clinical interventions, blood or body fluids, investigational drugs, or medical devices.
- Non-Human Subject Identification – Determinations for projects that do not meet the federal definition of human subjects research.
- Other Forms & Tools – Resources and templates for consent, recruitment, safety planning, and compliance.
- Reciprocal Reviews – Procedures for collaborating with non-GS researchers and coordinating IRB reliance agreements.
- Termination Form – Officially close an expedited or full board project once research activities and data collection are complete.
- Adverse Events – Reporting procedures for unexpected problems or participant risks during the course of an approved study.
Commitment to Research Integrity
By selecting the correct review type and submitting complete applications, researchers help safeguard participants and streamline the approval process. The IRB is committed to supporting innovative scholarship while ensuring compliance with ethical and regulatory standards.
For questions or assistance with review type determination, contact the Office of Research Integrity at irb@georgiasouthern.edu or call 912-478-5465.