Human Research Protection Program

At WMed, we believe that research is at the forefront of the advancement of knowledge through innovation and discovery. The Human Research Protection Program (HRPP) is a key component of WMed’s research strategy. The HRPP, in collaboration with the local research community, is responsible for ensuring the ethical and equitable treatment of all human subjects in research conducted at, under the auspices of, or using the services or resources of the medical school.

Our Accredited Program Promotes High Quality Research

AAHRPP AccreditationWMed achieved full re-accreditation by the Association for the Accreditation of Human Research Protection Programs, Inc. (AAHRPP) in June of 2023.

As the "gold seal," AAHRPP accreditation offers assurances—to research participants, researchers, sponsors, government regulators, and the general public—that an HRPP is committed to scientifically and ethically sound research and continuous improvement.

IRB News

WMed Awarded “Gold Seal” of Accreditation for Human Research Protection Program

The WMed Human Research Protection Program has been awarded full reaccreditation by the Association for the Accreditation of Human Research Protection Programs (AAHRPP) for an additional five years. We were reaccredited in June 2023, following a two-day virtual evaluation in March 2023. Read more here.


Process to Assist with Research Development

A process has been implemented to improve communication during research protocol development. The process begins with the completion of a Project Request & Triage Form. Once the form is submitted, you will be contacted to set up the appropriate meeting(s) and/or connect you with the appropriate resources. If you have any questions about the form, please contact Theresa McGoff at theresa.mcgoff@wmed.edu.


Updated Researcher Guidebook Now Available

The latest and most up-to-date version of the HRPP and IRB Researcher Guidebook is now available on the WMed website. For more information, go to the Researcher Guidebook webpage.


New Protocol Templates Available

There is now a protocol template specifically for secondary use of identifiable private health information; A cross-sectional study design template for survey studies or taking physical or biochemical measures at a single point in time. And lastly, educational studies trying to determine the effectiveness of a particular type of instruction, or trying to assess the educational needs or backgrounds of students. They are available on the Forms & Templates webpage under Protocol Templates.