Human Subjects

What is considered Human Subjects Research?

  • Definition of a Human Subject according to the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) (abridged)
  • Definition of Research according to the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) (abridged)
  • Video Presentation: discussion of when an activity is or is not considered ‘research’, and who is or is not a ‘human subject’ (Health & Human Services Office of Human Research Protections)

Human Subjects Required Training for Researchers

The PEERRS Human Subjects Module is required training for any researchers who conduct human subjects research. Please note that training must be re-certified periodically. Check the status of your PEERRS training using the PEERRS Certifications Lookup database (must use authenticated UMICH log in).

Getting Approval: Institutional Review Board (IRB) Application Process

Paying Human Subjects

  • In order to obtain payment for research subjects, your IRB application must indicate your intent to compensate project participants
  • Request for subject payments must go through the Human Subjects Incentives Program (HSIP) process; the Post-Award Services team will assist you with this (submit your request)
  • Several options for paying subjects are available, including cash, check, or gift card. Funding for subject payments should be disbursed within 30 days of the request
  • You will be need to submit documentation of payments made to your project participants--depending on several factors, the form and content of documentation will vary; your Post-Award administrator will provide you with the necessary information

Single IRB for Multi-site and Cooperative Projects

  • Most UM-Dearborn projects will fall under the definition of a “cooperative study.”
  • Definitions:
    • Cooperative studies involve investigators from two or more institutions who work together to conduct a research project.  Participants are NOT normally enrolled at each site; instead, one institution conducts the research interaction with participants and the other investigators/sites may be involved in assisting with the data collection or analysis, or other elements of the research.
    • Multi-site studies involve investigators from two or more institutions who work independently to conduct a larger research project, with each investigator conducting the same research procedures at different sites, each site being under the direction of a local participating investigator and each site enrolling and interacting with a different set of participants.
  • U-M guidance
  • Single IRB Process for collaborative projects

Contact for Assistance

For questions regarding IRB application requirements (e.g., policy, procedure, science), contact IRB Health Sciences and Behavioral Sciences
Phone: 734-936-0933  Fax: 734-936-1852  [email protected]

Office of Research

1060 - Administration Building
4901 Evergreen Road
Dearborn, MI 48128
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Phone: 313-593-5468
Fax: 313-593-6790