Research that meets an exemption should be submitted via the online form corresponding to the appropriate exemption (see this link to determine which of the exemptions applies to your research, if any).  If your work does not meet an exemption category then follow the steps listed below to submit a full proposal. 

Submissions to the IRB must include all of the following:

1. COMPLETED IRB Checklist
2. Cover sheet including the name of the project, researcher’s name and e-mail address, and advisor’s name and e-mail address (if applicable).
3. A summary of your project in no more than 150 words. (You can review a sample IRB proposal here.)
4. Detailed description of the procedural section of the research proposal.
5. A reasonably complete sample of the test items, if applicable.
6. Consent form and script for obtaining informed consent. (Consent form templates are available on our Policies, Forms, Templates, and Samples page.)
7. If applicable, script for debriefing research participants. (Debriefing is required where there is either deception or incomplete disclosure of the purpose of the study. If these do not apply, debriefing is nevertheless encouraged for the learning opportunity a debriefing provides participants.)
8. If another institution or organization will be involved in your research, include a letter of permission to conduct research from them. (Please note that this does not replace individual consent from your participants.)

Please send an e-mail that includes all of the above as attachments to IRB@bates.edu.

During the summer months (June-August) please cc the chair(s) of the IRB on all emails to ensure your inquiry has been received.

Note that all research with human subjects requires (1) research ethics training and (2) there are special requirements for consent and debriefing when research involves sensitive topics (e.g., research related to abuse, trauma, depression, body image dissatisfaction, etc).