Institutional Review Board (IRB)

UWF policy requires that all research activities involving human participants must be reviewed by the IRB prior to the recruitment of participants and initiation of data collection. This requirement applies to all research-related activities involving human participants at any UWF campus or conducted by any UWF faculty, staff and/or student.

To all investigators: It is a violation of federal regulations to initiate human subjects research prior to receiving IRB approval. Therefore, it is important that proposals be submitted to the IRB in a timely manner and with consideration of upcoming IRB meetings whenever the project involves completion deadlines (i.e. for publishing or thesis/dissertation submission). UWF asks that investigators please allow up to 4-6 weeks for IRB review.

Recent Update: As of July 1, 2025, Department Chairs and College Deans will be provided a copy of new IRB approval letters for faculty protocols.