Human Research Protections
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Human Research Protections


The office of Human Research Protections plays a vital role in advancing groundbreaking research at Weill Cornell Medicine while safeguarding the rights, welfare, and well-being of human research participants.  Collaborating closely with researchers, faculty, and institutional leadership, we provide comprehensive guidance and support throughout the research process.  From the initial design and submission of protocols to the rigorous evaluation of study risks and benefits, our combined expertise fosters a culture of responsible and accountable research practices.

In addition, we serve as a vital resource hub for our stakeholders, offering educational programs and trainings on research ethics, informed consent, and best practices.  Our aim is to empower research teams with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complex regulatory landscape, promoting the highest level of professionalism and integrity in all research endeavors.

At the office of Human Research Protections, we embrace the dual role of guardian and catalyst. While we diligently protect the rights and well-being of research participants, we also strive to facilitate innovative and impactful research that has the potential to transform lives. By upholding the highest ethical standards, we contribute to the reputation and excellence of our institution and medical school as a leading center of discovery, compassionate care, and responsible scholarship.

IRB Special Announcement: June 2025 Edition

June 11, 2025

Topics:

  • Updated Single IRB (sIRB) SOP 
  • Reminder: IRB Approval is Not Needed Before Registering a Trial on ClinicalTrials.gov 
  • Reminder: Register for upcoming IRB METS!

Read the full IRB Special Announcement: June 2025 

IRB Newsletter: April 2025 Edition

April 4, 2025

Topics this month:

  • Navigating Challenges Together – The WCM IRB is Here for You! 
  • Update to non-WCM Expiration notice in WRG
  • Updated Single IRB Reliance Request form 
  • IRB TIPS: Getting Your ICF & HIPAA Waiver Approved! 
  • CTSC Review SASP change: 
  • Complying with Legal Requirements: Prompt Reporting of Privacy Incidents
  • Updates to the WRG Intake Form
  • Join us for next month's METS

Read the full IRB Newsletter: April 2025 Edition

IRB Newsletter: November 2024 Edition

November 8, 2024

Topics this month:

  • Welcome Our New Research Leadership 
  • Help with your NIH Genomic Data Sharing (GDS)
  • WRG Help Tab 
  • How to Speak IRB: Exculpatory 
  • Dear WCM IRB 
  • WCM Institutional Data Repository for Research (WIDRR) 
  • Reporting Breaches of Confidentiality
  • Join us for next month's METS

Read the full IRB Newsletter: November 2024 Edition

IRB Newsletter: July 2024 Edition

July 30, 2024

Topics this month:

  • Engaging in a federally funded multi-site study requiring the use of a single IRB
  • Guidance: Leaving WCM? Closing a Study? 
  • How to Speak IRB: Identifiability 
  • Strategies for Obtaining IRB Approval 
  • Resource when conducting QA/QI activities
  • Join us for next month's METS

Read the full IRB Newsletter: July 2024 Edition