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Reasons for IRB Delays

The following are the most common issues that can lead to IRB application delays. Avoid these to ensure timely processing of your application and quicker approval.

 


 

1. Not following the instructions in the application or on the IRB webpage


 

 

2. Not providing required attachments (e.g., informed consent form, survey instruments, questionnaires, etc.)



 

3. Not following the current UCR Informed Consent Guide



 

4. Including inconsistent information between the IRB application and the consent form



 

5. Not describing the plan for storing sensitive research data



 

6. Not describing an adequate plan for documenting the informed consent process in research notes



 

7. Not providing information that is requested after review

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8. Not writing consent forms in the second person (e.g. correct format: “You are invited to be a part of a study…”)



 

9. Misunderstanding the federal definition of Minimal Risk research



 

10. Providing incomplete grant or funding information

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11. Failing to provide letters of permission (access letters) from external sites involved in the research



 

12. Not completing the Human Subjects Protection Course for all those involved in the research



 

 

13. Forgetting to provide names or signatures on the last page of the application



 

14. Grammar or spelling errors



 

15. Submitting the application before contacting the IRB office to discuss research ethics issues

 

 

For more information, contact irb@ucr.edu or visit the IRB webpage.