Do I need IRB approval?

If you are not the principal investigator (PI must be a full time, regular GW faculty member), you should first discuss your research with the PI before contacting OHR. If you are unsure if the project requires review by OHR or the IRB, you should submit a determination form via GW iRIS.

Note: GW permits PIs to make their own assessments if they are engaged in human subjects research. Determinations only need to be submitted to the OHR if requested by the funder or sponsor or if the PI is unsure if IRB review and approval is required.

These worksheets serve as guides to help you determine if your research project requires submission to the OHR:

1. Human Subject Research Determination Worksheet (available within GW iRIS)
2. List of Variables Example (tool when submitting a Determination request). 
3. FDA Human Subject Research Determination Worksheet (for clinical investigations that involve submission of data to the FDA).

Milken Institute School of Public Health Researchers:

• Milken Institute SPH Research Policy and Procedure Guidance

Contact Us

The George Washington University Office of Human Research (OHR) is available for your questions regarding projects involving human subjects.