Help Support Ethical Research: Join the IRB and Make a Positive Impact on Research and the People Who Make It Possible
Making a Difference Through IRB Service
Serving on the Institutional Review Board (IRB) is a meaningful way to give back to the research community.
IRB members help protect people who volunteer for research while also supporting researchers in conducting ethical, meaningful studies.
By ensuring research meets ethical standards, IRB members help strengthen trust, integrity, and the overall value of research.
When research is ethical and well‑reviewed, everyone benefits.
How the IRB Supports Ethical Research
The IRB is a research ethics committee that reviews research involving human participants.
Its role is to review research studies that involve human participants and help ensure those studies are conducted ethically, responsibly, and in compliance with applicable regulations.
The IRB plays a key role in helping:
- Treat people who volunteer for research with respect
- Ensure research risks are minimized through thoughtful study design
- Ensure consent materials are understandable and appropriate
- Support ethical, high‑quality research throughout its lifecycle
IRB Membership: Where Different Perspectives Matter
IRB members come from different backgrounds and roles.
Our boards include people with scientific and non‑scientific experience, as well as both UMB‑affiliated members and community members with no institutional ties.
Different perspectives help strengthen ethical review, and all voices matter.
Your Role as an IRB Member
IRB members review research studies and take part in productive, thoughtful discussions with fellow committee members.
As an IRB member, you will:
- Review research materials and consent forms
- Share your perspective during meetings
- Help ensure research is ethical and participant‑focused
No prior IRB experience is needed. Training and ongoing support are provided.
Meeting Schedule and Time Commitment
- Meetings are held 1–2 times per week, primarily via Zoom
- Members attend at least one meeting every other month
- Most preparation is done in advance, on your schedule
- Four in‑person meetings are held each year
Our Commitment to Ethical Research
IRB work is guided by the Belmont Principles:
- Respect for Persons (treating people with dignity and allowing informed choices)
- Beneficence (do no harm and promote good)
- Justice (fairness in who bears risks and who benefits)
These principles guide how research is reviewed and help protect participants, support ethical decision‑making, and reinforce trust in research.
Together with institutional, state, and federal requirements, they support ethical, high‑quality research.
Interested in Joining the IRB? Here’s How to Get Started
Getting started is easy. We’re happy to answer questions and talk with you about the role of IRB member.
Contact Us to Schedule a Q&A Session
All individuals interested in IRB membership participate in a Q&A session.
- Email hrpo@umaryland.edu
- Subject line: IRB Membership Interest
- A copy of your current CV may be submitted now or at a later time
The Q&A session is an opportunity to learn more, ask questions, and explore whether IRB service is a good fit.
Attending the Q&A session does not commit you to becoming an IRB member.