What is the focus of oversight bodies like IRB and IACUC in research?

The focus of oversight bodies like Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees (IACUCs) is fundamentally centered around safeguarding the rights and welfare of research subjects, whether they are humans or animals. These entities are established to ensure that ethical standards are maintained in research practices.

IRBs evaluate research proposals to ensure informed consent is obtained, risks are minimized, and the overall ethical treatment of human subjects is upheld. They assess factors such as the potential benefits of the research against the risks to participants, ensuring that the rights of individuals are prioritized throughout the study.

IACUCs serve a similar purpose, but in the context of animal research. They review protocols to ensure humane treatment and care of animals used in research, verifying that all animal welfare regulations are adhered to.

While enhancing research design and providing statistical support may be important aspects of the research process, these roles are distinct from the primary responsibilities of IRBs and IACUCs. Similarly, monitoring research outcomes after the study is outside the purview of these oversight bodies, as their main concern lies in the ethical implications and treatment of subjects prior to and during research activities.