What is the primary role of an Institutional Review Board (IRB) in research settings?

The primary role of an Institutional Review Board (IRB) is to review research proposals to ensure that they are ethically sound and that the rights and welfare of participants are protected. This involves evaluating the study's design, methodology, and the potential risks and benefits to participants. The IRB assesses whether the proposed research complies with ethical standards and regulatory requirements, ensuring that informed consent is obtained and that participants are treated fairly.

The function of the IRB is crucial in upholding ethical standards in research, particularly when human subjects are involved, as it serves as a safeguard against possible abuses in research practices. The review process fosters trust in the research process by ensuring transparency and accountability.

In contrast, conducting experiments, approving funding, or analyzing data are responsibilities that do not fall under the purview of the IRB. Researchers and funding bodies carry out those functions, while the IRB specifically focuses on ethical oversight.