At Grambling State, research is rooted in integrity. The IRB’s primary role is to safeguard the rights and welfare of individuals involved in research activities, ensuring that every study conducted under the University’s name meets the highest ethical standards.
We do this by:
Assessing potential risks to participants
Ensuring informed consent is obtained and documented
Monitoring research to ensure ongoing protection throughout the life of the study
The portal is your central hub for IRB policies, submission procedures, and updates.
Submissions are accepted year-round. However, to ensure your application is reviewed within your intended academic term, follow these key deadlines:
November 1, 2025
To have the initial review of your application completed prior to the end the Fall 2025 Semester. This means the application must be Fully Submitted (including Faculty Advisor acceptance – if applicable) on or before this date. *(For students desiring a Spring 2026 graduation).
March 2, 2026
To have the initial review of your application completed prior to the end the Spring 2026 Semester. This means the application must be Fully Submitted (including Faculty Advisor acceptance – if applicable) on or before this date. *(For students desiring a Fall 2026 graduation).
How to Submit Your IRB
To submit your research for IRB review, follow these required steps:
All applications must be submitted through the Sitero GSU-IRB Submission Portal using your GSU-issued email address (e.g. name@gsumail.gram.edu)
Before submitting, you must view:
Note:
Submissions will not be reviewed until all components are complete and submitted correctly in the portal.
Submission does not guarantee approval. Always allow sufficient time—especially near the end of academic terms.
Timeline Expectations
The IRB follows a two-step review process:
All protocols require up to 2 weeks for administrative screening after full submission.
| Type of Review | Estimated Timeline |
|---|---|
| Full Board Review | 6–8 weeks |
| Expedited/Limited Review | 4–6 weeks |
| Exemption Determinations | 2–3 weeks |
Special Information for Students
If you are a student researcher, please read carefully:
A protocol is only considered “Submitted to the IRB” after your faculty advisor or major professor has reviewed and signed off on the application within Sitero. This is a required step in the submission process.
✅ We strongly recommend confirming with your advisor that this approval has been completed.
Once the protocol status in Sitero reflects "Submitted to the IRB":
A reviewer will be assigned
If applicable, your protocol will be added to the next IRB meeting agenda for formal review
Tips for Success
Please plan ahead. Review times may vary based on several factors, including:
Volume of submissions
Application completeness or missing documents
Required revisions
Available reviewer expertise
Risk level and use of vulnerable populations
Complexity of proposed interventions
Failure to comply with informed consent requirements
Office of Graduate Studies
Campus Box 4239
Grambling, LA 71245
All inquiries regarding IRB, should be emailed to:
Dr. Carolyn Jackson
Interim Executive Director- Office of Graduate Studies
Chair – GSU Institutional Review Board
Sierra Pearce
DREI Project Coordinator
GSU-IRB Contact