IRB Administrator

The Institutional Review Board (IRB) Administrator is responsible for the ethical conduct of human subject research. They work closely with researchers to ensure that research studies are designed and conducted in a way that protects the rights and welfare of participants. IRB Administrators must be familiar with the federal regulations that govern human subject research, as well as the policies and procedures of their institution. They must also be able to effectively communicate with researchers, participants, and other stakeholders.

Roles and Responsibilities

The IRB Administrator is responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Reviewing and approving research protocols
• Conducting site visits to ensure that research studies are being conducted in accordance with the approved protocol
• Educating researchers on human subject research regulations
• Serving as a liaison between the IRB and the research community

Qualifications

To become an IRB Administrator, you will typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as public health, social sciences, or law. You will also need to have experience working with human subject research regulations. Certification is not required, but it is highly recommended. The Certified IRB Professional (CIP) credential is offered by the Association for the Accreditation of Human Research Protection Programs (AAHRPP). Candidates who pass the CIP exam demonstrate a high level of knowledge and skill in the field of human research protection.

Career Path

Many IRB Administrators start their careers as research assistants or coordinators. With experience, they may be promoted to IRB Administrator or to a more senior role, such as Director of Human Research Protection. Some IRB Administrators go on to work in other areas of human subject research, such as regulatory affairs or compliance.

Skills

To be successful as an IRB Administrator, you will need the following skills:

• Strong knowledge of human subject research regulations
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Attention to detail

Day-to-Day

The day-to-day work of an IRB Administrator can vary depending on the size and complexity of the institution. However, some common tasks include:

• Reviewing research protocols
• Conducting site visits
• Educating researchers on human subject research regulations
• Responding to inquiries from researchers and participants
• Attending IRB meetings

Challenges

One of the biggest challenges of being an IRB Administrator is the need to balance the protection of human subjects with the need to conduct research. IRB Administrators must be able to make decisions that are both ethical and scientifically sound. They must also be able to work effectively with researchers who may have different perspectives on human subject research.

Personal Growth Opportunities

As an IRB Administrator, you will have the opportunity to learn about a wide range of research topics. You will also have the opportunity to develop your skills in communication, interpersonal relations, and ethical decision-making.

Personality Traits and Personal Interests

IRB Administrators typically have a strong interest in protecting human rights and social justice. They are also typically good communicators and have a strong attention to detail. IRB Administrators who are successful in their careers are typically able to work independently and as part of a team. They are also able to manage their time effectively and meet deadlines.

Self-Guided Projects

There are a number of self-guided projects that you can complete to better prepare yourself for a career as an IRB Administrator. These projects include:

• Reading about human subject research regulations
• Attending webinars and conferences on human subject research
• Volunteering on an IRB
• Completing online courses on human subject research

Online Courses

Online courses can be a great way to learn about human subject research regulations and the role of the IRB Administrator.

Some of the skills and knowledge that you can gain from online courses include:

• An understanding of the history and ethical principles of human subject research
• A knowledge of the federal regulations that govern human subject research
• An understanding of the role of the IRB in protecting human subjects
• Skills in reviewing research protocols and conducting site visits

While online courses alone may not be enough to qualify you for a position as an IRB Administrator, they can be a helpful learning tool to bolster your chances of success in the field.