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Single IRB

August 7, 2025

For federally funded collaborative human research studies that do not qualify for exemption, use of a Single Institutional Review Board (IRB) is usually required. When required, this means that institutions engaged in conducting human research must agree to the selection of a Single IRB.  The selection of the Single IRB depends on factors such as complexity, expertise, number and type of sites, location, risk level, and resources.

When Does MSU Not Serve as Single IRB?

MSU generally does not act as the Single IRB in the following situations:

  • Five or more institutions: If five or more institutions are engaged in the human research, MSU usually does not serve as the Single IRB.
  • SBIR or STTR awards: For Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, the main awardee is a small business and MSU participates via a subaward. Because these awards often involve multiple phases of research and commercialization and are made to small businesses, MSU usually does not serve as the Single IRB. Use of a commercial IRB may be needed.

Are there Costs with Single IRB?

Yes, it is possible there may be costs associated with Single IRB.

  • Independent or commercial IRBs charge fees
  • Other institutions may charge fees to serve as Single IRB
  • Researchers should check if these costs are allowable in the budget

MSU does not currently charge a fee to serve as Single IRB on federally funded collaborative research. 

What to Do if a Single IRB May Be Needed?

The Michigan State University Human Research Protection Program (HRPP) must agree to the selection of the Single IRB. If your proposal might require a Single IRB, contact the MSU Human Research Protection Program (HRPP) IRB Reliance office before submitting your proposal because this determination may impact the budget.

Contact: orrs.irbreliance@msu.edu

To learn more, please visit: https://hrpp.msu.edu/help/reliance/nih-sirb.html