IRB History

Research Misconduct and the Origin of Institutional Review Boards in the U.S

Introduction:

On February 23, 2022, William Schneider, Ph.D. gave a presentation titled “Research Misconduct and Origin of the Institutional Review Boards in the U.S.”. During this talk, he examined the historical developments that shaped the conduct of research and regulations in America today. He also examined the way in which the communication of scientific results changed, and how those changes ensured the validity of the results. This led to more research, with prompted a response to ensure the safety of research participants. He also points to the public awareness and concern and increased government spending as reasons for increased regulation of research. Henry Beecher’s article exposing research misconduct after the Nuremberg Code and Declaration of Helsinki finally caused the creation of IRBs to ensure research is conducted ethically.