Research Review Boards
The Three I’s are three key research committees at the University of Alaska.
- The Institutional Review Board (IRB) ensures that any research involving human subjects is conducted ethically and safely. This means better protection for everyone in our community, not just those directly involved in research. Whether it's a small survey or a large study, the IRB's oversight helps maintain trust and safety across the board.
- The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) oversees the humane treatment of animals in research and teaching. This isn't just about lab experiments; it includes field studies and classroom activities too. By ensuring ethical standards are met, the IACUC helps uphold our commitment to animal welfare, which reflects positively on the entire university.
- The Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) monitors research involving biohazards and genetic material. This might sound like it only concerns scientists, but it actually ensures a safe environment for all of us. From teaching labs to working with certain plants and bacteria, the IBC's work helps prevent exposure risks and maintains safety standards that benefit everyone at UA.
Noncompliance with these committees can lead to funding restrictions, reputation damage, and legal liability for the university. By understanding and supporting these guidelines, we all contribute to a safer, more ethical, and successful UA.
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