The HRPP Insider
Updates from the Human Research Protection Program serving Brown University, Brown University Health, and Care New England.
May 26, 2026
Post-Alignment Edition
The HRPP Alignment Is Complete
The alignment of the Human Research Protection Programs (HRPPs) across Brown University, Brown University Health, and Care New England is now complete.
All active projects have been successfully migrated into Huron IRB, establishing one centralized system for the management of human subjects research across all aligned institutions.
This milestone marks the completion of a major institutional initiative focused on strengthening collaboration, streamlining research administration, and creating a more unified and efficient research oversight structure.
What This Means Going Forward
Beginning in June 2026:
All IRB meetings will take place in Huron IRB
All new submissions and ongoing study activities will be managed in Huron IRB
IRBNet is no longer accepting submissions
Remaining IRBNet submissions are being reviewed and processed
Historical IRBNet records will remain available for reference and audit purposes
The aligned HRPP now operates under:
A unified IRB review framework
One centralized Huron IRB system
Shared HRPP Toolkit materials and standardized processes
A four-panel IRB structure supported by a single flexible roster
Centralized training, consultation, and support services
Thank you to the Research Community
The successful completion of this transition reflects the collaboration and commitment of investigators, study teams, IRB members, administrators, information technology teams, and institutional leadership across all aligned organizations.
The HRPP extends sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed time, expertise, flexibility, and feedback throughout this process.
Important Reminder:
Population Modifications and Study Setup
As the result of data migration, studies were imported into Huron IRB as project shells with limited project-level information.
Research teams remain responsible for:
Reviewing project information for accuracy
Uploading current active study documents
Completing any data fields that could not be migrated
Updating personnel and administrative information as needed
Please remember:
Only current active documents should be uploaded
Historical or superseded documents should not be added to Huron IRB
Only the PI or a designated PI Proxy may formally submit items to the IRB
Huron Access and Registration
All individuals engaged in human subjects research must register to activate their account.
Key reminders:
Brown credential holders already have Huron access and do not need to register
Individuals using health system credentials must complete registration to activate, or link to their Brown account
A Huron account is required for all study personnel, and anyone that requires project access in Huron IRB
Researchers who still require assistance with access or registration should contact Brown's Office of Information Technology.
Training and Support Remain Available
The Brown HRPP continues to provide comprehensive support resources for the research community.
Available resources include:
HRPP Toolkit guidance
Role-based Huron training
Live training sessions
Office hours
One-on-one support
SHIP consultation services
Researchers are encouraged to continue utilizing the HRPP Education Center and support resources as they become familiar with ongoing operations in Huron IRB.
HRPP Website and Researcher Resources
The Brown HRPP website continues to serve as the centralized support resource for all aligned institutions.
HRPP web pages have been intentionally organized to guide researchers through each stage of the research lifecycle before, during, and after IRB review. Researchers are encouraged to begin with the Human Subjects Research homepage and navigate using the sequential support menu located on the left-hand side of the site.
Looking Ahead
With alignment now complete, the HRPP will continue focusing on:
Enhancing the researcher experience
Streamlining review and submission processes
Expanding educational resources
Supporting collaborative and multi-site research
Continuing operational improvements within Huron IRB
Additional updates, guidance documents, FAQs, and training opportunities will continue to be shared through the HRPP website, department communications, and future editions of the HRPP Insider.
Contact the HRPP
For questions or support, please visit the Need Assistance page.
Thank you for your continued partnership and engagement as we move forward together under the aligned HRPP structure.
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.
