IRB Application Procedure
IRB Applications must be submitted through Niner Research
New researchers (e.g., students) or researchers new to UNC Charlotte should review the Guidelines for Research information before submitting an online application
IRB review times will vary based on the level of IRB review required (Exempt, Expedited, Full). The Things You Need to Know page provides guidance regarding review times. In addition, the following timeframes are provided as guidance:
| Proposed Research Start | Submit for IRB Review |
| Spring Semester (starting in January) | Early October |
| Spring Semester (starting before the end of the semester) | Early January |
| Summer Session I | Late March |
| Summer Session II | Late April |
| Fall Semester (starting in August) | Late June |
| Fall Semester (starting before the end of the semester) | Early September |
Research involving Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) requires school-district review in addition to IRB review prior to the research occurring.
Important Note:
Research with human subjects requires IRB approval before the research begins. Research activities should not begin until IRB approval is obtained. Once the research is approved by the IRB, the protocol should remain open/active through data analysis.
Different Types of IRB Review
- Exempt determination (i.e, exempt from a higher level of review),
- Timeline: 7-14 days
- Exempt determination requiring Limited Review
- Timeline: 10-20 days
- Expedited review by the Committee (i.e., review by one or more members), or
- Timeline: 4-8 weeks
- Full review by the full Committee at a convened meeting.
- Timeline: 1-3 months
The UNC Charlotte IRB allows for the determination of exemption by authorized Office of Research Protections and Integrity staff. Be aware that the UNC Charlotte IRB interprets the Exemption criteria to mean that the research is exempt from a higher level of review. Modifications are still required for research with an Exemption determination.