Which statement best describes the role of an IRB?

The role of an Institutional Review Board (IRB) is specifically focused on the ethical oversight of research involving human subjects. This includes assessing research proposals to ensure that the rights, welfare, and safety of participants are prioritized. The IRB evaluates various aspects of human subjects research, including informed consent processes and risk minimization.

This focus on human subjects distinguishes it from a general research review committee or one that may address conflicts of interest or other types of research not involving human participants. Recognizing that the IRB's primary mandate is related to protecting individuals participating in research helps clarify its essential function within the research oversight framework.