FAQs

Q. My research does not require contacting people because I want to use existing/archived material, (including biological specimens). Do I need IRB approval?

A. Yes! If the material you plan to use was obtained from persons that are most likely still living, then you need IRB approval.  However, if you are using an existing data set or existing biological specimens there are separate (much shorter) applications for existing data sets or biological specimens.  See the IRB website, for a description of qualifying data and fill out the appropriate application for Class B (for biological specimens), Class P (for Public use data) or Class S (for de-identified data not derived from other research projects).  If you have questions, contact the human subjects office at ask.humansubjects@nyu.edu or 212-998-4808.