When to Check In: How UA’s Research Committees Impact Everyone
February 21, 2025
How and when to work with UA’s Research Committees
Even if you're not directly involved in research, the upcoming UA Compliance Chat
is one you won't want to miss. This session sheds light on three of the university’s
research committees that play an important role in protecting our community and ensuring
the university's success.
Why You Should Watch
You might think research committees only matter to researchers, but their work affects
everyone at UA. Here's how:
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.
In this , Mary Gower interviews Dr. Jonathan Stecyk, from the UAA Department of Biological Sciences and Chair of the UAA Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee; Emily Reiter, UAF Industrial Hygienist, Radiation Safety Officer, Biosafety Officer, and member of the UAF Institutional Biosafety Committee; and Dr. Erica Hill, UAS Director of Research & Professor of Anthropology, and the UAS member representative on the UAF Institutional Review Board.
Why Compliance Matters
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.
Don't miss this chance to learn how these research committees may impact your work and daily life at UA. Tune in to this Compliance Chat and stay informed about the essential processes that protect our community.
Want to Win a Prize?
After watching this Compliance Chat, answer the following question:
Question: Which committee would you consult if your research involves live vertebrate
animals?
Email your answer to ua-compliance@alaska.edu. A correct answer will be drawn at random to receive a $20 Amazon.com gift card!
Congratulations to our most recent Amazon gift card winners: Leslie, Sara, Tamara, Kristin, Derwin, and Audrey!