When conducting collaborative research, the Brandeis University investigator must communicate with the Brandeis IRB and clearly delineate the portion of the research each investigator — both Brandeis University investigator and non-Brandeis University investigator — will be conducting. After confirming that both Brandeis University and non-Brandeis University investigators are engaged in the research, the Brandeis University IRB has three options:
- The Brandeis University IRB agrees to joint review of the research with the assured IRB of the collaborating investigator’s institution.
- The Brandeis University IRB agrees to become the IRB of record for the complete research project.
- The Brandeis University IRB agrees to rely on the assured IRB of the collaborating investigator's institution.
Conducting Collaborative Research With an Investigator at an Assured Institution
When a Brandeis University investigator is conducting collaborative research with an investigator at an institution with an assured institutional review board, the Brandeis University IRB, in conjunction with the IRB of the collaborating investigator's institution, will determine whether joint review of the research is appropriate or whether one institution's IRB will cede review to the IRB of the collaborating investigator's institution, which then becomes the IRB of record. This decision is based on a number of factors, such as:
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The level of risk to subjects associated with the research.
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If funded, which institution is the prime recipient of the funding.
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If funded, whether the funder specifies which IRB is to act as the IRB of record.
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If a multisite project, whether one institution is coordinating the research.
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If the research is subject to the NIH Single IRB (sIRB) policy for multisite research (NOT-OD-16-094).
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The components of the research being conducted at each institution.
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If the majority of contact with research subjects is at one institution.
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If one institution's IRB has more appropriate experience and expertise to review the research.
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If one IRB does not feel it has sufficient understanding of the context in which the research is being conducted.
When the Brandeis University Institutional Review Board agrees to either cede review or serve as the IRB of record, a formal IRB Authorization Agreement is required and must be in place naming the Brandeis University IRB as IRB of record, or stipulating that the Brandeis University IRB cedes oversight to the IRB of the collaborating investigator's institution.
If both institutions agree to joint review, the two IRBs will collaborate to ensure those aspects of the research that depend on both IRBs' approval (such as recruitment or consent procedures and materials) will meet the approval of both IRBs.
Conducting Collaborative Research With an Independent Investigator
When conducting collaborative research with an independent investigator, Brandeis University must enter into an Individual Investigator Agreement with the independent investigator naming the Brandeis University Institutional Review Board as the IRB of record.
It is the responsibility of the Brandeis University investigator to bring to the attention of the Brandeis University Institutional Review Board administrator that they will be collaborating with an independent investigator.