Single IRB

The University of Utah IRB (UUIRB) serves as the SIRB for the Utah Data Coordinating Resource Center. We are an AAHRPP-accredited IRB that provides high-quality review for new studies from a wide array of specialties and disciplines. The University of Utah has joined the SMART IRB Master Authorization Agreement, allowing for a streamlined SIRB reliance process with the more than 900 institutions who have also joined. The UUIRB has an established process for engaging with site investigators and HRPP representatives in order to secure IRB reliance and approval for each participating site. Use of the UUIRB as an SIRB provides investigators with access to the ERICA Online System, an electronic system that streamlines submission, review, communication, and documentation for studies. Additionally, investigators have access to a comprehensive SIRB consultation process for navigating issues related to study design, methods, and consent documentation for multicenter studies.

Recent policy changes by the NIH and DHHS require the use of a single IRB of record for multicenter research to reduce redundant IRB review, streamline ongoing IRB reviews and approvals, and to streamline investigator submission processes. The HEAL Pain ERN has established three single IRBs, which are based on the SMART IRB Authorization Agreement to provide SIRB services to a funded multicenter clinical trial.

For each study, the HEAL Pain ERN SIRB will also provide resources, tools, and a web-based platform, IRB Reliance Exchange (IREx), to operationalize the SIRB. The goal is to ensure all site investigators understand the process for initiating the use of an SIRB at their local institution, as well as how to submit and report to the SIRB from initial submission to study closeout.