• Human Subjects Research

In addition to administering grants and contracts for the University, the Office of Research and Sponsored Projects (ORSP) oversees the Standing Advisory Committee for the Protection of Human Subjects (SACPHS), also known as the Human Subjects Committee. Federal regulations require that all research involving the use of human subjects undergo review by the Human Subjects Committee to ensure that no undue risks are involved. This Committee is composed of scientists, non-scientists, and community members with diverse backgrounds to maintain a comprehensive review of the research projects.

The SACPHS is regulated by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Office of Human Research Protection (OHRP). The Committee must apply the pertinent federal and state regulations to human subjects research.

All students and faculty conducting research that utilizes human subjects must complete a protocol form and submit it to ORSP. Blank protocol forms and copies of the federal guidelines for human subjects research may be downloaded from this site. Meeting schedules, protocol submission deadlines and instructions for completing protocol forms are also available.

In the case of funded projects, failure to obtain approval for research could result in cancellation of current and future funding. Furthermore, any non-approved research, which is conducted by individuals associated with the University (student, faculty, etc.) exposes the researchers as well as the University to legal action.

Definition of Human Subjects Research

Human Subjects Protocol Forms

*It is important that you read and follow all instructions when completing these forms. Incomplete forms may be returned without action, resulting in significant delays to your research.

**You will need Acrobat Reader for PDF files:
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For more information about submitting your human subjects project, please visit Human Subjects Frequently Asked Questions.

Human Subjects Committee

Schedule of Submission Deadlines and Meeting Dates

2008-2009

Deadline dates for submission of protocols to be reviewed by the Committee are two weeks prior to each meeting (except for the November and December meeting deadlines, which are different due to the Veterans Day Holiday and Thanksgiving Holiday). Meetings will be held the fourth Tuesday of each month (except for the December meeting, which is different due to the winter break.

List of Committee Members

This committee is not governed by the FacultySenate. It is administered through the Office of Research & Sponsored Projects.