Learning Center
For Investigators & Study Teams
Guidance for navigating single IRB arrangements
SMART IRB Start-Up Packages
Collected resources to help you prepare for and fulfill your responsibilities related to single IRB arrangements. Each package includes a guide describing how and when to use the resources as well as links to online tools and further information. Contact your institution’s SMART IRB POC for more information about processes at your institution.
Introduction to Single IRB Review and SMART IRB
Learn about single IRB (sIRB) review and find out how SMART IRB can help you meet sIRB requirements.
Key Resources
Request, track, and document reliance arrangements on a study-by-study basis.
NIH Single IRB Policy
Learn about the NIH Single IRB Policy and what you need to address in funding applications for multisite research.
Selecting a Single IRB
Learn about the options for selecting a single IRB for your funding application.
Key Resources
Request, track, and document reliance arrangements on a study-by-study basis.
Developing a Single IRB Plan
Learn about the options for selecting a single IRB for your funding application.
Potential Effects of NIH Single IRB Policy on Research Costs
Find out how the NIH single IRB policy can affect research costs related to IRB review, staffing, and resources, and learn how to address these costs in your funding application.
Study Team Roles Related to Single IRB
Learn about key study team roles, responsibilities, and communication structures required for single IRB review.
Key Resources
Using the SMART IRB Reliance System
Learn how to request, track, and document reliance arrangements for your studies using the SMART IRB Reliance System.
Video Chapters
- Introduction to the Reliance Request Process (0:00)
- Who can submit requests (0:46)
- Creating a New Request (1:07)
- Adding a New Site to a Request (3:57)
- Providing Site Details (5:34)
- Reliance Pre-check (7:47)
- Reviewing IRB Decision (8:37)
- Tracking Request Status (9:07)
- Entering a Site's Reliance Decision (9:27)
- Issuing Determination Letter (9:57)
