What is the primary role of the Institutional Review Board (IRB)?

The primary role of the Institutional Review Board (IRB) is to review proposed research for ethical compliance. This involves ensuring that research studies adhere to ethical principles and standards, particularly regarding the protection of human subjects. The IRB evaluates the potential risks and benefits of the research, assesses the adequacy of informed consent processes, and ensures that participants' rights and welfare are prioritized. By conducting these reviews, the IRB plays a critical role in safeguarding the well-being of participants in research studies, ultimately fostering ethically sound research practices.

In contrast, the other choices involve activities that are not within the IRB's mandate. While funding and resource allocation may affect research initiatives, the IRB does not participate in the approval of funding. Instead, their focus is solely on ethical considerations. Additionally, the IRB does not conduct research or gather data themselves; their role is to oversee and review the research proposals submitted to them. Thus, the option regarding ethical compliance distinctly captures the essence of the IRB's purpose and responsibilities in the research process.