The Human Research Protection Program serving Brown University, Brown University Health, and Care New England.
February 11, 2026
IRB Alignment: Phase 1 Successfully Launched
January marked the first month of IRB board alignment, and we are pleased to report that the transition went very smoothly. Thank you to our IRB members, research teams, and HRPP staff for your flexibility and collaboration as we launched Phase 1 of our multi-phase alignment strategy.
This milestone represents the first step in our long-term vision for a fully aligned IRB and HRPP infrastructure.
More details about Phase 1 can be found on the HRPP Alignment webpage.
What’s Next: Phases 2 and 3
With Phase 1 underway, we are already preparing for the next stages:
Phase 2
Launch of the revised SmartForm in Huron
Implementation of the new Huron registration process
Phase 3
Final data migration and full integration into Huron
These phases will complete our transition to a single, aligned research administration platform. Details are being finalized and will be shared in future communications, as well as on the HRPP Alignment webpage.
Process Improvements for the Research Community
As we have worked together as a collective HRPP this past month, we have made several changes designed to reduce burden, improve consistency, and align with national best practices.
1. Progress Reports No Longer Required
Progress reports are no longer required for:
Expedited studies that do not require continuing review
Exempt studies
These studies will instead be monitored through post-approval monitoring, aligning with national best practices.
External IRB Exception: For research reviewed by an external IRB, researchers must follow the requirements of that IRB. If a progress report is required, it must be submitted to the external IRB.
2. BUH Consent Stamp Update
The expiration date has been removed to align with BIRCH partners and best practice. Please note this change is designed to enhance compliance, but does require the study team to be mindful of always using the last approved consent form.
IRBNet Library Updates to Support Alignment
To support the transition and improve consistency across platforms:
BUH Workspace
Removed former documents that are no longer applicable
Replaced submission forms to align with the Brown Huron Toolkit
Revised forms are minimally different and should not disrupt workflows
Forms with the BUH logo will still be accepted for studies already in process
CNE Workspace
Added Brown submission forms as optional tools. These are not required, but may be helpful for those who wish to begin orienting to the aligned system
All Libraries
Removed progress report templates as they are no longer required
Added:
Note to File template for documenting changes in IRB oversight for active research
Anonymous roster for the aligned IRB
New Scheduling Tool
We are currently working to implement Calendly, an online scheduling tool that will be accessible to all partners. Calendly will replace the Microsoft Bookings calendar currently used at Brown Health, creating a single, streamlined scheduling experience across the HRPP. Final transition date coming soon!
Thank You
These updates are possible because of your engagement, adaptability, and collaboration. We are grateful to the research community and our IRB members for your continued partnership as we move toward a fully aligned HRPP.
More updates coming soon as we move into Phase 2!
Through the BIRCH initiative, the Brown HRPP will provide unified oversight for human subjects research across Brown University, Care New England, and Brown University Health, with Brown University serving as the IRB of record for all three institutions.
