Ethics Review
CSSRA operates an Institutional Review Board registered with the U.S. Office for Human Research Protections, providing ethics review for social, educational and behavioral research in full compliance with federal regulations (45 CFR Part 46).
OHRP IORG0012641 · IRB IRB00014949 · Valid through Nov 14, 2028
Who we serve
Journals, funders and degree programs increasingly require documented ethics approval for any research involving human participants. Our IRB serves researchers who need recognized, independent review — across North America, Asia and beyond.
Practitioners, consultants and independent academics whose studies involve human participants.
Thesis and dissertation studies that need recognized ethics documentation for publication.
Studies conducted where local ethics review infrastructure is limited or unavailable.
Scope of review — CSSRA IRB #2
Review tracks
For minimal-risk research in established exempt categories — e.g. anonymous surveys or analysis of existing, de-identified data. The IRB confirms in writing that your study qualifies.
For minimal-risk research outside exempt categories. Reviewed by designated experienced IRB members without convening the full board.
For studies involving more than minimal risk or vulnerable populations. Reviewed and voted on at a convened meeting of the board.
The process
Email your study protocol, research instruments, consent materials and investigator CV to admin@colossra.org.
We confirm your submission is complete and determine the appropriate review track: exempt, expedited or full board.
Qualified reviewers assess risks, consent procedures and participant protections under 45 CFR Part 46. You may be asked to revise and resubmit.
A formal determination letter bearing our federal registration numbers, suitable for journals, funders and institutional requirements.
Guide & documents
Everything about our review services in one public document — scope, governance, timelines, fees and responsibilities. Read it below, then download the application form to begin your submission.
Comprehensive Research Ethics Review Guide · 21 pages · Version 1.0, November 2025 · read online above. To request a copy for institutional purposes, contact admin@colossra.org.
Complete all sections and submit it together with your supporting documents (see the checklist at the end of the form). The Word version can be filled in directly on your computer; the PDF version is suitable for printing.
Before you submit
A complete submission speeds up review considerably. Please prepare:
Submit everything together with the IRB Application Form. Fees depend on the review track and study complexity — the current fee structure is described in the review guide above.
Ready to submit?
Send your materials, or write to us first with questions about eligibility, timelines and fees.
Email the IRB officeOur peer-reviewed, open-access journal welcomes submissions across the social sciences.
