IRB Membership

Members of the IRB are appointed by the President of Wheeling University to represent the interests of the University and the community. IRB members are ordinarily appointed for staggered terms of two years and may be reappointed when their initial term expires. There are at least five members of the IRB, with various backgrounds and fields of expertise, including at least one representative from outside of the University.

The IRB may, at its discretion, invite individuals with competence in special areas to assist in the review of issues which require expertise beyond or in addition to that available in the IRB. A written statement of their formal testimony will be included in the written record. These individuals may not vote with the IRB.

What is involved in IRB Membership?
The time commitment to IRB membership involves one afternoon meeting per month, plus the necessary preparation time. IRB meetings commence around 4:30 p.m. and last about 2 to 3 hours. Board members receive materials, including an agenda, new research proposals and other issues for review, about a week prior to each meeting. The advance preparation also requires additional hours, depending on the individual and the assignment of designated reviewer responsibilities.

IRB Member Contributions and Responsibilities

1. Contribute to the institution’s human research protection program by participating in the review and evaluation of new research proposals and ongoing research investigations,
2. Develop an understanding of the ethical principles and federal regulations for the protection of research participants,
3. Review materials and attend monthly meetings prepared to discuss proposals and items on the agenda within the member’s realm of expertise,
4. When appointed as a designated reviewer, identify and facilitate the resolution of any issues for a proposal,
5. Complete the IRB certification.

IRB Committee

Members

Chair: Alison Kreger, PT, DPT, PCS, CKTP, Clinical Associate Professor | email
Mohammad Hadadzadeh, BPT, MPT, Ph.D., PDCR, Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy | email
Debbie Wilkinson, Community Member

IRB Committee Meetings

IRB meetings to consider new formal research submissions are conducted once a month, unless it has to be changed for holidays. Proposals for new formal research are to be submitted to the IRB Administrative Assistant 14 days prior to the IRB meeting. All meetings start at 3:00pm* @Stone Center

IRB speakers are available to provide presentations and training to departments on topics such as human subject protection and IRB requirements. If you would like additional information or to schedule a presentation, please contact Dr. Alison Kreger at 304-243-7201 x103 or by email at IRB@wheeling.edu.

*Subject to change if needed.