Office of Sponsored Programs

IRB Definitions

Research - Research is defined in the applicable Federal regulations as: "a systematic investigation, including research development, testing and evaluation, designed to develop or contribute to generalized knowledge.

Human Subjects - A human subject is defined in the applicable Federal regulations as "a living individual about whom an investigator (whether professional or student) conducting research obtains (1) data through intervention or interaction with the individual.

Vulnerable Populations - Certain categories of people are typically determined by IRB's to be vulnerable or at higher risk, including: children, people with diminished mental capacity, prisoners, and pregnant women.

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