Human Research Protection Program

Informed consent provides the individual with the pertinent information regarding the research in which s/he is being asked to participate, and the opportunity to make an informed decision regarding whether or not to participate in the research. The primary purpose of informed consent is to protect the prospective human subject.

See the Informed Consent webpage

The informed consent form documents the information regarding the research that the subject has been given, and his/her agreement to participate in the research. More information:

• Elements of informed consent

• Informed consent form template (pdf)

No. A waiver of documented informed consent may be granted by the Institutional Review Board in certain circumstances. However, in such cases, the subject must give verbal informed consent and an information sheet similar to the informed consent form is often required.

See the Informed Consent webpage

Minors (nonemancipated individuals younger than 18) may not give legal informed consent. In research involving minors, informed consent must be obtained from the minor’s parent or guardian. This does not mean that the minor has no say in whether they participate in the research, however. In cases where the minor is able to understand what his/her participation would entail, informed assent must be obtained from the minor.

See the Research with Children and Students webpage