Office of Research Compliance launches peer-to-peer IRB mentoring program to support graduate student researchers

The Office of Research Compliance (ORC) within the Division of Research and Creative Activity is launching a new program this fall designed to strengthen support for graduate students conducting human subjects research. ORC believes the peer-to-peer support model will help demystify the research review process and reduce delays in obtaining approval.

The program aims to improve outreach and education for graduate student researchers through a peer mentoring model, helping students navigate the Institutional Review Board (IRB) process and submit correct, complete and compliant research applications. The program has three primary goals: increasing awareness and understanding of human subjects research requirements among graduate students, improving the completeness of initial IRB submissions from graduate students and introducing a graduate student to the field of research compliance administration.

ORC has hired a Graduate Student Administrative Assistant, Caroline Miller, to work in the role of peer mentor. Miller is a graduate student in the College of Arts and Sciences at Ohio University, working towards a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. She has engaged in research activities at multiple institutions including Ohio University, the University of Chicago and the National Institute of Mental Health. Miller brings her experience and passion for the scientific enterprise to her position as a peer consultant in the IRB and is excited to support fellow students.

"Conducting human-subjects research as a student can feel daunting, but it's also an exciting milestone in your academic journey. I'm looking forward to supporting my peers through the IRB submission process and hope to be a valuable resource in increasing students' confidence in approaching research and preparing strong protocols," Miller said.

A key component of the role will involve pre-reviewing submissions from graduate student researchers before they enter the formal IRB review process. These reviews will focus on ensuring applications are complete, required training has been completed, supporting documents are included and submission materials are consistent and ready for review. Miller will also be available to meet with graduate student investigators in one-on-one and group settings, either in person or virtually through Microsoft Teams based on researcher preference. She will also host a series of workshops targeted towards graduate students. 

By connecting graduate researchers with a knowledgeable peer mentor, ORC hopes to provide educational opportunities for graduate students, streamline the submission process, and provide valuable professional development opportunities for the student selected for the position.

Graduate student investigators can schedule time with Miller by contacting her at gradirbhelp@ohio.edu or using this link: https://outlook.office.com/book/CarolineMillerBookings@catmail.ohio.edu/?ismsaljsauthenabled

Fall Workshop Schedule: 

9/16: Fall 2026 Student Investigator Series: Introduction to IRB Protocols and Submissions

10/7: Fall 2026 Student Investigator Series: Completing an Initial Submission Template

10/28: Fall 2026 Student Investigator Series: Special Topics

Register at: https://www.ohio.edu/research/compliance/human-subjects