Full formMedical & Health
IRBstands forInstitutional Review Board
Full Form of IRB
What is IRB?
An Institutional Review Board (IRB) is a formally designated committee that reviews, approves, and monitors research involving human subjects to ensure ethical standards are upheld. In India, IRBs operate within universities, medical colleges, hospitals, and research institutions to safeguard the rights, safety, and well-being of participants. The board evaluates study protocols, informed consent processes, and data handling practices before research begins, and it conducts ongoing oversight. IRBs function under the guidelines of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), especially for clinical trials. They are crucial for regulatory compliance and public trust in biomedical and social science research. For students preparing for medical entrance exams like NEET PG or research ethics courses, understanding the functions of an IRB is essential, as questions on ethical approvals and participant protection frequently appear. The term is commonly encountered in academic and clinical settings across India, where researchers must obtain IRB clearance prior to starting any human subject study.
IRB का फुल फॉर्म
संस्थागत समीक्षा बोर्ड
Example
The researcher submitted the clinical trial proposal to the IRB for ethical review before recruiting any participants.
IRB — frequently asked questions
What is the full form of IRB?
The full form of IRB is Institutional Review Board, a committee that oversees research involving human subjects.
What is the role of an IRB in India?
The IRB reviews research protocols to protect participant rights and safety, ensures informed consent, and monitors ongoing studies, following ICMR and CDSCO guidelines.
How is an IRB different from an IEC?
An IRB (Institutional Review Board) and IEC (Institutional Ethics Committee) are often used interchangeably in India, but IEC is a more common term under Indian regulations, while IRB is widely used internationally.