Participant Support
Howard University is committed to protecting the rights, safety, and welfare of individuals who volunteer to participate in research conducted by HU faculty, staff, and students. These volunteers, also known as "participants" or "subjects," contribute valuable information that can answer important questions and help improve lives.
One way this is accomplished is by having all research studies reviewed by an Institutional Review Board (IRB). The IRB carefully reviews and monitors research to ensure that it is carried out legally and ethically. Research studies cannot be started until the IRB has approved the study.
All Research Participants Have the Following Rights
- To be treated with respect, including respect for your decision whether or not you wish to enroll in, continue in, or stop being in a study.
- To choose to stop being in a study at any time without penalty.
- To have the research study explained to you and to be given time to ask questions.
- To be given time to fully understand the research study and to give voluntary and informed consent before participating.
- To be told whom you can contact if you have any more questions.
- To be given a copy of the consent form after you have signed it.
- To be informed of the purpose, procedures, and risks of the research.
- To be protected from physical or psychological harm.
- To have their privacy and confidentiality respected.
- To be informed of the results and benefits of the research.