Since grants and contracts are made to institutions rather than individuals, it is the responsibility of the University at Albany to insure that all research conducted under its auspices is carried out in such a manner that the rights and welfare of subjects, society, the environment and researchers are protected and that research activities are in compliance with applicable State and Federal regulations. Investigators are expected to consult the Research Compliance Officer at the planning stages of research to determine if any regulations or safety policies apply to their research and what steps must be taken to comply with them. The University at Albany is committed to the principle that the rights and welfare of human beings participating as subjects in University research, training, and other related projects must be protected.
Prior approval is required for all research, regardless of the source or amount of funding.
The IRB has the responsibility for deciding if a given activity should be considered human subjects research. Many campus activities which should be included in this category are not viewed as such by the individuals involved. As a result, the IRB should be consulted prior to engaging in any activity where information is to be gathered from humans by any faculty member, student, or staff member of the University. Aspects of a project which the IRB might question can be discussed and alternative procedures suggested. Investigators are encouraged to consult the Human Subjects Research Officer at the early planning stages of the research.