Applies to studies presenting no more than minimal risk to non-vulnerable participants. The IRB Chair or Coordinator determines exemption status.

• Research on instructional strategies, curricula, or classroom management techniques
• Research using cognitive tests or public observation (provided data is anonymous and non-damaging)
• Research involving publicly available or fully de-identified diagnostic specimens and data
• Evaluation of public service or benefit programs
• Taste and food quality studies involving wholesome, additive-free foods or safe agricultural limits

Applies to studies involving no more than minimal risk (including certain studies involving minors or minor protocol adjustments):

• Participating in observational studies or interviews with children
• Minimal-risk blood draws (e.g., finger sticks or limited venipuncture under 50 ml) or non-invasive specimen collection (hair, saliva, dental plaque)
• Non-invasive clinical measurements (e.g., MRI, ECG, EEG, Doppler blood flow, moderate exercise testing) using market-cleared devices.

Reserved for research that involves potential risk to human subjects. Requires review by the complete IRB panel:

• Administration of new investigational drugs or substances
• Research involving pregnant women, fetuses in utero, or subjects with life-threatening conditions
• Physically intrusive procedures or studies causing significant physical/psychological stress
• Research involving vulnerable or protected populations (e.g., prisoners, children, individuals with mental impairments)
• Research involving sensitive/illegal behaviors where disclosure could trigger legal or civil liabilities

• Protocols are approved for a maximum duration of 12 months
• Continuing review must be requested at least once per year
• Expedited process applies for continuations if no changes have been made to the protocol and no adverse events have occurred; otherwise, a full board review is required