Please reach out to Brenna Szott at (406) 994-4706 or via email at brenna.szott@montana.edu for any IRB-related questions.

Determine If You Need IRB Approval

  • IRB Protocol Decision Tool: This tool will help you determine whether or not you will need IRB approval. Please note that this should be used as a guide only. 

Review IRB background information

Complete the Human Subjects Research Training: Students and Class Projects.

  • This training is offered by CITI. You will need to follow the links provided to log in.
  • Make sure to use the LOG IN THROUGH MY ORGANIZATION option choosing Montana State University.
  • You will sign on with your NetID and password.
  • You will need to affiliate your account with Montana State University.
  • Select Add a Course>choose Human Subjects Research>Next>IRB Students and Class Projects>Next
    • The course will show in My Courses.
    • Plan to set aside ~2 hours to complete this training. You must receive an average score of at least 80% to pass the training.

Completed trainings will be uploaded during the twice a week upload. At that time, you will receive view only priviledges in TOPAZ.

  • You will need to complete this form to request your privileges be updated to Principal Investigator (PI)
  • Please note the privileges will not be updated until your required training is complete.

IRB Protocol: You will need to submit an IRB Protocol for review using the TOPAZ system.

  • Login and How-To videos are located on this page.
  • You will need to submit fully complete instruments along with your IRB protocol in order to receive IRB protocol approval. Do NOT submit your IRB protocol without your instruments attached OR collect data without first having your instruments approved.
  • Most MSSE students will only need an Exempt level review, not an Expedited/FCR level review. If you believe your project is more than minimal risk, please reach out to Brenna Szott at (406) 994-4706 or via email at brenna.szott@montana.edu for assistance.