All research involving humans or confidential patient information within UHN requires approval of the UHN REB before starting a project.
Investigators from other institutions doing research on UHN premises or with UHN patients or data must also apply to the UHN REB.
Where can I get information about the REB fee?
The REB fee is collected by Research Solutions and Services via Grant and Contract Services. It helps offset costs for REB support services. Details are available in the Grant and Contract Services FAQ.
What counts as research?
Research involving humans includes:
administering drugs, taking samples, doing tests or procedures for research purposes
asking people for information (survey, phone, interview, questionnaire)
reviewing patient charts for research
using human-derived materials (tissue, blood, DNA)
using non-public records with identifying info
using previously gathered info even if anonymized
observing people’s behaviour
If unsure, contact the REB Chair or Ethics Coordinator.
Where is the UHN REB located?
700 Bay Street LuCliff Place, 17th Floor, Suite 1700-1 Toronto, Ontario M5G 1Z6
How should I submit my REB submissions?
New study applications must be submitted through CAPCR.
Other submissions (renewals, amendments, unanticipated event forms, etc.) must be emailed to rebsubmissions@uhnresearch.ca.
How do I find out the status of my protocol application?
Contact reb@uhnresearch.ca or call 416-581-7849 for submission confirmation and status updates.
How does the REB review protocols?
The UHN REB uses proportionate review: the intensity of review matches the type of research and the potential risks involved.
Who reviews my proposal?
REB has four panels. Assignment depends on:
research topic
scientific expertise needed
workload of panels A and B for multidisciplinary studies
How do I make the required changes to documents reviewed by the REB?
Make revisions using tracked changes on a clean, REB-reviewed copy. Update version dates. Submit both tracked and clean copies. Do not mix old and new tracked revisions.
Who decides who reviews my proposal?
Panel assignment is decided by the REB Co-Chairs with input from REB Coordinators.
Can a participant be given new information that may affect consent before REB approval?
Yes. Since consent is ongoing, participants may receive new important information before REB approval if the PI believes it is necessary. The process must be documented and reported to the REB within seven days.
What research qualifies for delegated review?
Delegated review decisions are made by the REB Co-Chairs. Criteria include:
minimal risk or minimal incremental risk over standard procedures
non-invasive data collection (questionnaires, observation)
previously collected data (chart reviews, databases)
When should I submit a pregnancy follow up consent form to the REB?
Submit a pregnancy follow-up consent form only if a participant (or partner) becomes pregnant, unless the study objectives require it at the start. Submit within the event.
Why is there often more than one set of questions during a review?
REB review is iterative. Answers often lead to new questions. REB may request revisions or more information until all concerns are resolved. Final decisions: Approved, Not Approved, or Approval Not Required.
Why does the REB review the study budget?
REB reviews clinical trial budgets per TCPS Article 7.3 to ensure:
feasibility
lack of coercion
no conflicts of interest
What does not count as research?
Does NOT require REB review:
using only published or publicly available info
quality assessment, performance reviews, or testing within normal educational requirements
If unsure, contact the REB Chair or an Ethics Coordinator.