University of Nebraska Kearney

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How long does IRB approval last?

 All research projects have IRB approval for a period of one year. 

For projects that continue beyond one year, it is the responsibility of the researcher to submit an annual update to the IRB.  The first annual update is due twelve months following the date the protocol received IRB approval.  Researchers will receive one notification regarding the due date of the annual update.   

Upon receipt of the annual update the IRB will review it, and, if appropriate, approve continuation of the project for the next twelve-month period. At the end of five years, the protocol must be resubmitted if the project continues.  

Failure to submit an update within 30 days following the due date will result in termination of IRB approval.  Should the IRB determine that a project requires review more frequently than every year, the IRB will notify the researcher.  The IRB has the authority to directly observe ongoing research projects and the consent process as well as audit research records.   

Notify the IRB in writing by completing the Request for Annual Update form, which is located in the Forms drop-down menu at the top of the web page.