IRB Coordinator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the evolving world of research and compliance, the role of the Institutional Review Board (IRB) coordinator has never been more significant.

As research protocols advance, the demand for dedicated professionals who can navigate, enhance, and protect our research integrity grows incessantly.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s actually expected from an IRB coordinator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to grasp the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the profile of an ideal candidate,
• Or simply interested in the complex dynamics of research compliance,

You’ve landed in the right spot.

Today, we introduce a customizable IRB coordinator job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive straight into it.

IRB Coordinator Duties and Responsibilities

An IRB (Institutional Review Board) Coordinator plays a crucial role in ensuring that the research conducted by an institution adheres to ethical standards and regulatory guidelines.

The IRB Coordinator is the primary point of contact for researchers, the IRB committee, and regulatory agencies.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Coordinate and manage the review process of research protocols to ensure compliance with ethical standards and regulatory requirements.
• Assist researchers in the preparation and submission of protocol applications.
• Organize and attend IRB committee meetings, documenting discussions, decisions, and actions taken.
• Maintain communication with researchers regarding the status of their protocol applications, revisions, and renewals.
• Provide training and guidance to researchers on the IRB submission process, federal regulations, and ethical guidelines for human subjects research.
• Review and keep current with changes in federal and state regulations regarding human research protections and update the institution’s policies and procedures accordingly.
• Maintain detailed records of all IRB activities and ensure the security and confidentiality of all research data.
• Prepare reports for regulatory agencies, as required.
• Provide support to the IRB Chair and committee members, including preparation of meeting materials.

 

IRB Coordinator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated Institutional Review Board (IRB) Coordinator to manage the administrative activities of our IRB.

This includes overseeing the review and approval process for research involving human subjects to ensure compliance with ethical standards and regulatory requirements.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, has excellent organizational skills, and can interpret and apply complex regulations.

 

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and manage the activities of the IRB
• Provide guidance to researchers on the preparation of submissions
• Review and evaluate research protocols for compliance with ethical standards and regulations
• Prepare agendas and minutes for IRB meetings
• Maintain accurate and organized records of all IRB activities
• Facilitate communication between the IRB, researchers, and other stakeholders
• Stay up-to-date with changes in regulations and best practices related to human subject research
• Develop and implement IRB policies and procedures
• Provide training and support to IRB members and researchers

 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field required, Master’s degree preferred
• Experience in research administration, particularly with an IRB
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations related to human subject research
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Ability to interpret and apply complex regulations
• Detail-oriented with excellent problem-solving abilities
• Proficiency with computer systems and databases
• Certification in IRB Professional (CIP) is a plus

 

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities
• Flexible work schedule

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: IRB Coordinator
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Occasional local travel may be required for meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Research Administration.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an IRB Coordinator Do?

An IRB Coordinator, also known as an Institutional Review Board Coordinator, typically works for universities, healthcare institutions, or research facilities.

They are responsible for ensuring that all research studies conducted within the institution are ethical and compliant with federal regulations, institutional policies, and guidelines.

The IRB Coordinator oversees the entire review process for research proposals.

They serve as a liaison between the IRB committee and the researchers, providing guidance on the application process, regulations, and ethical standards.

They are responsible for preparing agendas for IRB meetings, recording meeting minutes, and communicating the committee’s decisions to the research investigators.

They also assist in maintaining the institutional database of research protocols and ensuring that all necessary documentation is in order.

IRB Coordinators also conduct initial and ongoing reviews of research protocols.

They monitor research studies for any changes or adverse events and take necessary actions to ensure participant safety and data integrity.

In the event of any non-compliance issues, the IRB Coordinator will work with the research team to make necessary corrections and prevent future occurrences.

They also participate in audits and inspections related to research activities.

IRB Coordinators play a crucial role in promoting ethical research practices and safeguarding the rights and welfare of research participants.

 

IRB Coordinator Qualifications and Skills

An IRB (Institutional Review Board) Coordinator plays a vital role in research industries by ensuring the ethical conduct of research.

The qualifications and skills required for this position include:

• Understanding of principles and procedures related to IRB and human subject protection to ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.
• Ability to interpret and apply complex research guidelines and standards using analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional organizational skills to manage multiple research projects, applications, and documentation simultaneously.
• Excellent communication skills for liaising with research staff, investigators, and the IRB committee, explaining policies and procedures, and preparing written correspondence and reports.
• Attention to detail to review research protocols, informed consent documents, and other related materials.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Experience with IRB electronic systems and software, and general computer skills for data management, document preparation, and email communication.
• Professionalism and ethical judgment in handling sensitive and confidential information.

 

IRB Coordinator Experience Requirements

IRB Coordinators, or Institutional Review Board Coordinators, typically require at least 2 to 3 years of experience in clinical research or a related field.

This can be gained through roles such as Research Assistant or Clinical Research Associate.

Candidates may also gain relevant experience through an internship or part-time role in a clinical or research setting.

Familiarity with human subjects research and the ethical principles involved is crucial, and such understanding can be developed through direct involvement in research studies.

IRB Coordinators need to have a good grasp of research protocols, consent processes, and federal regulations concerning human subjects research.

This expertise is typically developed over several years of working in a research setting or a regulatory compliance office.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience often have developed advanced skills in coordinating IRB meetings, handling complex research protocols, and training other staff.

They may be ready to take on managerial or supervisory roles within the IRB or in other research compliance areas.

Additionally, certifications such as Certified IRB Professional (CIP) might be desired, which also requires a certain amount of professional experience in human subjects research.

 

IRB Coordinator Education and Training Requirements

IRB (Institutional Review Board) Coordinators typically have a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as health science, nursing, social science or other relevant areas.

In addition to this, they are required to have knowledge about regulations and ethical guidelines related to human subject research, as they will be responsible for ensuring research projects meet these requirements.

Prior experience in clinical research, healthcare, or administrative roles are often desired.

This helps them understand the administrative and regulatory aspects of the job.

Some roles may require a master’s degree, particularly in health administration or a related field.

While not always necessary, a master’s degree may make a candidate more competitive for some positions.

Certification, such as the Certified IRB Professional (CIP) designation, is not required but can demonstrate a commitment to the field and may be preferred by some employers.

Additionally, IRB Coordinators must have strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills to manage multiple research projects and handle any issues that arise.

Ongoing training and professional development are often needed to stay current with changes in regulations and best practices in the field.

 

IRB Coordinator Salary Expectations

An IRB (Institutional Review Board) Coordinator can expect to earn an average salary of $51,649 (USD) per year.

The actual compensation can vary based on factors such as the level of experience, qualifications, and the location of the employing institution or company.

 

IRB Coordinator Job Description FAQs

What skills does an IRB Coordinator need?

An IRB Coordinator needs excellent organizational and administrative skills to effectively manage the review process for research projects.

Strong communication skills are crucial as they interact with investigators, IRB committee members, and other stakeholders.

Detail-oriented individuals with analytical skills are desired in this role, as they need to review complex research proposals and ensure all ethical standards and regulations are met.

 

Does an IRB Coordinator need a degree?

Yes, an IRB Coordinator typically requires a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as health sciences, psychology, or social sciences.

Some institutions may prefer or require a Master’s degree.

Additionally, certification in healthcare research, such as Certified IRB Professional (CIP), is advantageous.

 

What should you look for in an IRB Coordinator resume?

On an IRB Coordinator’s resume, look for a background in health sciences, social sciences, or a related field.

Important experiences include familiarity with research protocols, understanding of ethical guidelines and regulations, and strong administrative skills.

Certifications such as the Certified IRB Professional (CIP) designation are also highly desirable.

 

What qualities make a good IRB Coordinator?

A good IRB Coordinator is diligent, detail-oriented, and possesses strong administrative skills.

They should be capable of understanding and interpreting complex research documents, and have an unwavering commitment to ethical guidelines.

Strong communication skills are crucial for interacting with various stakeholders, and they must be able to manage their time effectively to coordinate the review process smoothly.

 

Is it challenging to hire an IRB Coordinator?

The challenge of hiring an IRB Coordinator lies in finding a candidate with the right mix of education, experience, and skills.

A candidate should have a good understanding of research methodologies, ethical standards, and regulations, along with strong administrative skills.

Given the specialized nature of the role, finding a candidate who ticks all these boxes can be a challenge.

Offering competitive salaries, continuous learning opportunities, and a conducive work environment can help in attracting suitable candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve revealed the core of what it means to be an IRB Coordinator.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about managing research reviews.

It’s about safeguarding ethical standards, one project at a time.

With our quintessential IRB Coordinator job description template and real-world examples, you’re more than ready to take a leap.

But why halt here?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your subsequent stride towards meticulously crafted listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Don’t forget:

Every research review is a step towards a better, more ethical world.

Let’s build that world. Together.

How to Become an IRB Coordinator (Complete Guide)

Oddly Amazing: Unusual Jobs That Actually Exist

Relaxed and Rich: Low-Stress Jobs That Offer Financial Freedom

Living Life on a Highwire: The Reality of High-Risk Occupations

Workday Euphoria: Enjoyable Jobs That Are a Daily Delight