How many of you can relate to this? I’m sure I’m not alone! To paraphrase a common idiom, “We may not have it all together, but together we have . . . most of it.” So, let’s all meet up at the all virtual 2022 PRIM&R Annual Conference(PRIMR22) December 12 -15 with workshops December 6 & 8! There is a packed agenda with crossover content for the entire research community. Read more
But how can IRBs engage communities while operating within the boundaries of their current regulatory role? Do IRBs have an ethical obligation to be proactive in ensuring diversity in clinical trials? Indeed, IRBs are uniquely positioned to influence research practices toward an equitable and more inclusive research world. Perhaps, the FDA and HHS should consider revisiting the scope of responsibilities of IRBs to provide broader latitude for making a greater impact on public health. The questions in this blog are the types of engaging thoughts I plan to discuss during the 2022 PRIM&R Annual Conference. I am most grateful that PRIM&R is providing a forum to discuss these important thoughts and expect more ideas will be generated as we continue the journey of straightening the path towards health equity for all. Read more
The fact that IRBs are invisible to most human beings can make it feel impossible to meaningfully engage with the lay community. And yet, community engagement should be a valuable part of what we accomplish in the IRB's mission to serve the community. Read more
Research noncompliance occurs when researchers (intentionally or unintentionally) fail to comply with established regulations, policies, and/or committee-approved research protocols. Noncompliance comes in many forms. It is study-specific and not always identified by IRBs and IACUCs in the same manner. Some instances of noncompliance may be discovered through post-approval monitoring activities, while others come to the committees via whistleblowers, or reports submitted by the researchers themselves. Whatever the case, committees must decide what happens after noncompliance has been identified. Read more
In 2022, we surveyed IACUCs and Animal Resource Programs (ARPs) to learn more about changes, both temporary and permanent, to the regulated work environment for animal research oversight and laboratory animal care. At PRIMR22, we will take a deep dive into regulatory implications for remote work and oversight activities and examine the impact of recent changes to the labor market on ARPs. Read more
