Heartland IRB – Your
Partner in Ethical
Research Approval.
Safeguard your research and participants. Start
an IRB Review today with a trusted expert.
What We Do
At Heartland IRB, we
provide expert guidance
and personalized service
for the unique needs of
your research study.
With a sole focus on delivering efficient, high-quality institutional review board services, Heartland IRB equips you with the expertise and support needed to accelerate your research to market.
With a sole focus on delivering efficient, high-quality institutional review board services, Heartland IRB equips you with the expertise and support needed to accelerate your research to market.
With a sole focus on delivering efficient, high-quality institutional review board services, Heartland IRB equips you with the expertise and support needed to accelerate your research to market.
With a sole focus on delivering efficient, high-quality institutional review board services, Heartland IRB equips you with the expertise and support needed to accelerate your research to market.
Why Heartland
Our Dedication Speaks for Itself
Operating For
15+ YEARS
Guiding researchers through the IRB process with expertise, trust, and unwavering commitment to ethical standards every step for over 15 years now.
Our Offer Is
1 SERVICE
We only do IRB reviews, ensuring speed, precision, and the highest level of care for your research approval needs. Additionally, we do yearly renewals.
We Have Only
1 FOCUS
Mastery demands focus so ours is solely on social science, education research, and program evaluation for grant-funded projects. No clinical protocols.
Turnaround Time
5 DAYS
We deliver results in just 5 days – faster than 99% of IRBs. And if you need it sooner, our priority service guarantees approval in 24 hours.
About us
A Bit More About Us
At Heartland IRB, we’re more than just a service provider—we’re a trusted partner in advancing ethical research.
Our team of dedicated reviewers and researchers is united by a shared mission to protect the rights and welfare of human subjects while empowering independent researchers and evaluators to conduct impactful studies.
Companies that trust us
Services
Our Services
Heartland IRB specializes in social science, education research, and program evaluation for grant-funded projects.
While we don’t review clinical protocols, we are experts in both quantitative and qualitative research tools, with experience across education, social science, psychology, business, and program evaluation.
Click below to read more about our services
Why Is An IRB Approval
So Important?
Before you embark on your research project, it’s crucial to understand the importance of Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval. Whether you’re conducting social science or education research, or evaluating a program for a grant-funded project, securing IRB approval is essential to ensure your research meets ethical standards, complies with regulations, and protects the rights of your participants.
IRB approval isn’t just about meeting legal requirements—it’s about conducting research responsibly, mitigating risks, and safeguarding your participants, which in turn strengthens the credibility and impact of your work. Let’s dive into the key reasons why IRB approval is indispensable for your research.
Ensuring Legal Compliance
When it comes to research funded by state or federal agencies, IRB review is legally required. IRBs are tasked with ensuring that the proposed research follows the necessary ethical standards and protects the well-being of participants. They also conduct periodic reviews to ensure that research is carried out as approved. This level of oversight is critical for maintaining legal and ethical integrity, and it’s a safeguard that ensures the research process is conducted responsibly.
Protecting Participants and Research Integrity
Grant-funded projects often require IRB approval to safeguard participant data, especially when involving minors or vulnerable populations. Even if not required by the government, IRB approval protects your investment and reduces legal risks or negative publicity. It also assures governing boards and stakeholders that the evaluation protects participants and follows ethical guidelines.
Ethical Considerations for Educational Venues
Educational institutions, including museums, science centers, and nonprofits, often conduct research involving human subjects. Whether through surveys, interviews, or observational studies, they must ensure their research adheres to ethical standards. IRB approval provides independent oversight to ensure participant rights are protected, and the research is conducted ethically.
Mitigating Risks
IRBs help identify potential risks, ensuring research complies with regulations like the U.S. Common Rule. This compliance avoids legal issues like lawsuits or loss of funding. For research evaluating educational programs or informing policy decisions, IRBs provide an essential review to protect participants’ privacy and ensure ethical data collection.
Enhancing Credibility
IRB approval not only ensures ethical practices but also enhances research credibility. It shows a commitment to responsible research, helping secure funding, partnerships, and community support. Stakeholders are more likely to support initiatives that prioritize ethical standards and participant protection.
How To Apply
We review research protocols and program evaluation plans on a weekly basis. Our
online submission process is simple and easy to use.
Follow the steps below to submit your project for review:
01
Download the Required Forms
Access the resources page and download the fillable WORD forms in the “Mandatory Documents” section for your review submission.
02
Complete the Forms
Fill out the downloaded forms on your desktop and save the completed versions for easy submission later.
03
Register on Our Platform
Create a free account on our website to access your user dashboard and begin your submission process.
04
Take the Assessment
Complete our 20-question assessment or provide proof of human subject training within the past two years to ensure your understanding of ethical guidelines.
05
Submit Your Project
In your dashboard, create a new project, upload the completed forms and any other required documents, then proceed to checkout.
06
Receive a Confirmation
Once your submission is received, we’ll notify you of its successful submission and send a confirmation receipt for your records.
07
Fast Approval
Expect your protocol review within 5 business days, or the same day for expedited requests. Approval letters are delivered within 8 hours of committee approval.
After you submit your project for review, you will receive a
confirmation email and a receipt for your payment.
Client Feedback
What Others Are Saying?
Jennifer Borland
Director of Research Programs
“I appreciate your quick review of this submission and always find it a pleasure to work with Heartland.”
Aletta van der Walt, MBA, MSc., PMP, LSSBB, CSM
Director of Operations
CADRE Center for Advanced Design Research & Evaluation
“Thank you so much for the quick turnaround of this IRB approval.”
Erika Moldow, PhD, MSW
Research and Evaluation Consultant
Elm Consulting
“Our team was so pleased to have IRB approval for our study. Thank you for all the effort.”
Alicia Lynch
CEO and Founder
Lynch Research Associates, LLC
”Wonderful! Thank you so much for this quick turnaround!”
Jill Adona
Senior Analyst
Mission Economic Development Agency (MEDA)
“I appreciate your quick review of this submission and always find it a pleasure to work with Heartland.”
Yasmin Ibrahim, MD, PhD
Public Health Program Director
Hepatitis B Foundation
“I really appreciate your prompt response and help!”
Gibran Sebastian Okar
Independent Analyst
“Thank you so much for your guidance on this process!”
Jennifer Borland
Director of Research Programs
“I appreciate your quick review of this submission and always find it a pleasure to work with Heartland.”
Aletta van der Walt, MBA, MSc., PMP, LSSBB, CSM
Director of Operations
CADRE Center for Advanced Design Research & Evaluation
“Thank you so much for the quick turnaround of this IRB approval.”
Erika Moldow, PhD, MSW
Research and Evaluation Consultant
Elm Consulting
“Our team was so pleased to have IRB approval for our study. Thank you for all the effort.”
Alicia Lynch
CEO and Founder
Lynch Research Associates, LLC
”Wonderful! Thank you so much for this quick turnaround!”
Jill Adona
Senior Analyst
Mission Economic Development Agency (MEDA)
“I appreciate your quick review of this submission and always find it a pleasure to work with Heartland.”
Yasmin Ibrahim, MD, PhD
Public Health Program Director
Hepatitis B Foundation
“I really appreciate your prompt response and help!”
Gibran Sebastian Okar
Independent Analyst
“Thank you so much for your guidance on this process!”
FAQ
Frequently
Asked
Questions
What is an Institutional Review Board (IRB)?
An Institutional Review Board (IRB) committee reviews and approves research involving human subjects to maintain ethical standards. The IRB aims to protect research participants’ rights, welfare, and well-being.
Why do I need IRB approval for my research?
IRB approval is required for research involving human participants to ensure that the study is ethically conducted and that participants’ rights are protected. This approval helps ensure compliance with federal regulations, institutional policies, and ethical guidelines.
Who needs to submit a study for IRB review?
Anyone conducting research involving human participants, including universities, organizations, or independent researchers, must submit their study for IRB review. This includes clinical trials, surveys, observational studies, and other research involving interaction with individuals or their data.
How do I submit a study for IRB approval?
To submit a study for IRB approval, you must complete a protocol review form and provide detailed information about your research, including the study’s objectives, methodology, participant recruitment, consent process, and potential risks.
You can submit your application through our online submission portal. If you haven’t already, go here and register.
What types of studies require IRB review?
Any study involving human participants in surveys, interviews, or data collection requires IRB review.
The review process may vary depending on the level of risk involved, with some studies eligible for expedited review and others requiring full board review.
What is the difference between expedited and full board review?
Expedited Review: This review is typically for studies involving minimal risk to participants and can be reviewed by a smaller group of IRB members rather than the full board.
Full Board Review: This review is required for studies that pose a greater risk to participants or involve more complex research methodologies. The full IRB board meets to evaluate the study.
How long does it take to receive IRB approval?
The timeline for IRB approval can vary depending on the complexity of the study and the type of review required. Expedited reviews typically take 1-3 business days, while full board reviews may take five business days.
We recommend submitting your application well before your research start date to allow for review and any necessary revisions.
What information do I need to include in my IRB application?
At a minimum, your application should include:
- A completed protocol review form
- Investigator Review Form and CV/resume
- Proof of Human Subjects Training
- Recruitment material
- Consent Forms
- Data Collection Instruments
For further information, visit our “Resources” section.
Can I begin my research before receiving IRB approval?
No, research involving human participants cannot begin until you have received written IRB approval. Conducting research without IRB approval violates ethical guidelines and may lead to termination of the study or other sanctions.
What happens if my study is not approved?
If your study is not approved, the IRB will provide feedback outlining the reasons for disapproval.
You may need to revise your study design, participant protections, or informed consent process. After addressing the concerns, you can resubmit your application for further review.
Do I need to submit amendments if I change my research after receiving IRB approval?
Yes, any significant changes to your study—such as modifications to the protocol, participant recruitment process, or informed consent procedures—must be submitted as an amendment to the IRB for approval.
Minor changes may not require review, but checking with the IRB office for guidance is always best.
How much does an IRB review cost?
The costs of IRB review can vary depending on the research type and the review level required.
Please refer to our “Services” page for detailed information on submission fees and other costs associated with IRB services.
How can I contact the IRB for assistance?
For any questions or support, you can contact our IRB office through the contact form on our website, email at secretary@heartlandirb.org, or phone at 866-618-4472 (HIRB).
Our staff are available to assist you throughout the submission and review process.
Where can I find more information on IRB policies and regulations?
For detailed information on IRB policies, guidelines, and regulations, please visit our website’s “Resources” section. You can also consult relevant federal and institutional regulations, including the Common Rule and HIPAA, for additional guidance on conducting ethical research.
Get Your First (or Next)
Project Approved Today
Take the first step toward ethical research approvals with Heartland IRB and let us help you navigate this process with ease. Whether it’s your first project or an ongoing study, we’re here to provide the expertise and support you need to get your research approved quickly and efficiently.
With our streamlined process and expert guidance, you can focus on what matters most – conducting meaningful research while ensuring the safety and rights of your participants. Start your protocol review today and let’s get your project moving forward!
Click below to register