IRB Recommender

Do I Need IRB Review?

Not every research project requires IRB approval. ClearPath helps you figure out if your study qualifies for exemption—or if you need full review.

What type of project are you planning?

Select the category that best describes your research approach.

Systematic Review

Reviewing papers and studies already published—no new participants

Meta-Analysis

Combining results from multiple studies using statistics

Secondary Data Analysis

Using data someone else already collected (like CDC datasets)

Chart Review

Looking back at old medical records without contacting patients

Human Subjects Study

Recruiting people, collecting new data, or testing interventions

A few quick questions about your study

This helps ClearPath determine your exemption eligibility based on federal regulations (45 CFR 46).

Good news! Your project likely qualifies for IRB exemption at most institutions. You're using public or de-identified data without recruiting participants.

What this means: You can probably start your research after a quick exemption check from your IRB office. Download a 1-page research plan outline to submit, or create a full protocol if your institution requires more detail.

Your study might qualify for exemption, but some details (like identifiable data or vulnerable populations) mean your IRB needs to make the final call.

What to do: Submit an exemption request to your IRB, or use the Protocol Design Assistant to prepare a full submission. Either way, you'll need IRB approval before starting.

Your project requires full IRB review because you're recruiting participants, collecting new data, or testing an intervention.

Next step: ClearPath can generate a complete IRB protocol draft in about 15 minutes. The wizard walks you through everything the IRB needs to know—then exports a submission-ready document.

Not sure what to research yet?

ClearPath generates 5 personalized, IRB-exempt project ideas based on your interests. These are real research opportunities—systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and secondary data studies you can start right away.

What specialty interests you? (Optional)

Any specific topics? (Optional)