Research Compliance in The Texas A&M University System
For sponsored research projects that involve research with animals, biohazardous materials, or human subjects, SRS is required to ensure that funds are managed in accordance with the respective compliance-protocol requirements. At each Texas A&M System member where principal investigators (PIs) conduct research that requires approval for protocols from a research-compliance committee, a responsible research compliance office exists to help support and monitor work on a project. For many A&M System members, that entity is the Office of Research Compliance and Biosafety at Texas A&M University. If you are unsure of which office and/or committee maintains review and oversight for research on your campus, contact your respective Chief Research Officer.
Actions Required for Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) Protocols
One three-year permit is issued per PI for all studies. If an IBC permit on a research project lapses or is suspended, any and all work with biohazardous materials must stop. No charges are allowable, and SRS will be required to freeze all accounts until the permit is reinstated or approved.
Actions Required for Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) Protocols
There is only one grant associated with each animal-use protocol. IACUC protocols are approved for three years. If a protocol expires, activities which do not involve direct interaction with the animals are permitted. The responsible compliance office will indicate to SRS, in the case of a termination notice, which activities are allowable and if project charges (other than animal care) may continue.
Actions Required for Institutional Review Board (IRB) Protocols
When protocol approval lapses, no activities are allowable, and no charges are allowable unless specifically cited by the responsible compliance office.