IRB Member

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Job Title: IRB Member 

Location: Remote 

Reports To: IRB Chair/Vice-Chair, IRB Directors 

Position Type: Contractual 

Overview: The IRB Member plays a crucial role in the review, approval, and ongoing monitoring of research involving human subjects. The IRB ensures that research studies comply with ethical guidelines, federal regulations, and company policies. As a committee member, you will contribute your expertise to ensure the protection of human subjects and the integrity of the research process. Committee members may include professionals from diverse fields, including physicians, statisticians, community representatives, pediatricians, nurses, psychologists, social workers, and other relevant disciplines. 

Key Responsibilities:  

1. Review Research Protocols: 

• Review research protocols and study documents to ensure that they adhere to ethical principles, federal and state regulations, and company policies. 
• Assess risk and benefit analysis, informed consent processes, privacy and confidentiality protections, and participant recruitment strategies. 

2. Attend IRB Meetings: 

•  Participate in monthly or scheduled IRB meetings, typically held bi-weekly to review new research protocols, renewals, amendments, and progress reports.  
• Provide input on the ethical considerations and risks associated with proposed research studies, especially related to your area of expertise.  
• Offer suggestions for improving study designs to enhance subject safety and data integrity. 

3. Conduct Ethical Reviews: 

• Ensure compliance with ethical standards for human subject protection, including but not limited to voluntary participation, informed consent, confidentiality, and risk mitigation strategies.  
• Evaluate whether proposed research aligns with current ethical norms, community standards, and vulnerable populations' protections. 

4. Collaborate with IRB Chair and Directors: 

• Work with the IRB Chair/Vice-Chair and Directors to provide timely feedback and recommendations on research protocols. 

5. Conflict of Interest Management: 

• Disclose any potential conflicts of interest, whether financial, professional, or personal, that may impact your ability to make objective decisions regarding a specific protocol.

6. Ongoing Education and Training: 

• Participate in annual or periodic training sessions to stay up to date on changes in ethical standards, regulations, and emerging issues related to human research protections. 

7. Advise on Specialized Areas of Expertise: 

• Depending on your expertise (e.g., pediatrics, social work, statistics, community advocacy), offer specialized advice and review related to specific types of research. 

8. Participate in Audits and Compliance Checks: 

• Assist with audits or compliance checks for approved studies, ensuring that ethical standards continue to be met throughout the course of research.

9. Other Responsibilities 

• Other jobs as assigned 

Qualifications:  

Required: 

• Advanced degree in a relevant field (e.g., MD, PhD, RN, MSW, JD, etc.). 
• Experience in clinical or social research, human subjects protections, or related ethical fields. 
• Demonstrated ability to critically review research protocols, medical records, and research data. 
• Knowledge of federal regulations, such as the Common Rule (45 CFR 46), Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations. 
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to interact effectively with a diverse group of professionals. 

Preferred: 

• Previous experience serving on an IRB, research ethics board, or similar oversight committee. 
• Specific expertise in one of the following: pediatrics, psychology, nursing, social work, statistics, public health, or community advocacy. 

Compensation: 

The compensation for IRB committee members is based on current industry standards. Each IRB committee member will receive: 

• Rate for Ongoing Work: 
• IRB members will be compensated a flat fee in accordance with the IRB Member Fee Schedule Addendum for preparation, review time and meeting participation. 
• Other Benefits: 
• IRB Members will receive additional benefits, including reimbursement for travel, $35 stipend per month for internet expenses, and special rates for services provided. 

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit their resume/CV, along with a brief statement of interest outlining their relevant expertise and experience, to Careers@unison-re.org.