What is the primary aim of a research ethics review board (IRB)?

The primary aim of a research ethics review board, often referred to as an Institutional Review Board (IRB), is to protect the rights and welfare of human research subjects. This protection is critical because research involving human participants raises ethical concerns about safety, informed consent, and the potential risks versus benefits of participation. The IRB thoroughly reviews research proposals to ensure that any risks to participants are minimized and that informed consent is properly obtained.

This focus on protecting participants is fundamental to ethical research practices and is central to maintaining public trust in the research process. By prioritizing the rights and welfare of subjects, the IRB helps uphold ethical standards that govern research involving people, which is essential for the integrity of the scientific community and the responsible conduct of research.