The Office of the Vice Provost for Research has announced a number of administrative changes aimed at helping investigators and committee members navigate the sometimes complex landscape of research compliance.

Deborah Holland, assistant vice provost for research, director of compliance, says the changes are intended to support investigators and committee members in the ethical conduct and review of research.

“In research compliance, communication and documentation are the keys to success,” Holland said.  “The new forms and website changes will provide the support that Baylor researchers and committee members need to perform their roles while also documenting the university’s commitment to the responsible and ethical conduct of research.”

Summary of compliance changes and updates:

• New submission forms and templates are available in the IRBNet system, including IRB applications, consent form templates, continuing review & closure forms and protocol templates.  The forms have been completely redesigned to meet regulatory requirements and reflect current best practices for IRB review, documentation and compliance.
• The compliance website is undergoing updates to improve investigators’ access to the information needed to conduct their research.  New content will include explanations of the various review committee functions, assistance in determining what type of review is needed, and an FAQ section.
• As in previous years, the OVPR will offer a compliance seminar in the fall for researchers and staff.  This year, for the first time, the seminar will be presented at the Louise Herrington School of Nursing in Dallas in addition to the session on the Waco campus.  The seminar will include discussion and question & answer sessions with the IRB chair and vice-chair, as well as the assistant VPR, director of compliance.  OVPR staff will also be on hand to explain the IRBNet and CITI online systems.

Contact Deb Penney, OVPR administrative associate, with any questions.