Protection of Human Subjects in Research Committee (Institutional Review Board)
Reporting Line
The Protection of Human Subjects in Research Committee (Institutional Review Board) reports to the Vice Provost for Research.
Composition of Membership
Members of this committee are appointed by the Vice Provost for Research. Federal law mandates at least five (5) members and must include a scientist, a nonscientist, and a person who is unaffiliated with the institution. The VPR or his or her designee also may appoint additional persons from any unit or discipline in the University to serve in an ex-officio capacity or ad hoc consultant(s) to provide expertise as needed.
Committee Charge Responsibilities
The Protection of Human Subject in Research Committee serves as Baylor’s Institutional Review Board (IRB) and provides initial and continuing review of all research involving human subjects subject to its jurisdiction. The committee monitors human subjects research for adherence to applicable regulations, including the Common Rule and FDA Regulations.
https://resources.research.baylor.edu/research/irb
Committee Members, 2026-2027
| Member | Department (Academic Unit)/Title Role | |
|---|---|---|
| Benson, Nicholas | Educational Psychology (Education) Scientist | 2027 |
| Blanchet, Paul | Communication Science and Disorders (HHS) Scientist | 2027 |
| Horton, Dennis | Religion (A&S) Non-Scientist | 2027 |
| Meraz, Rebecca | Nursing (Nursing) Alternate Scientist | 2027 |
| Polson, Clay | Social Work (Social Work) Non-Scientist | 2027 |
| Roberts, James | Marketing (Business) Non-Scientist | 2027 |
| Rowatt, Wade, Chair | Psychology and Neuroscience (A&S) Scientist | 2027 |
| Shafer, Dan, Vice Chair | Film and Digital Media (A&S) Non-Scientist | 2027 |
| Smith, Cory | Health, Human Performance, and Recreation (HHS) Scientist | 2027 |
| Tsang, Jo-Ann | Psychology and Neuroscience (A&S) Scientist | 2027 |
| Burney, Jenessa | Pharmacist, West Drug; Oceans Behavior Hospital Non-Affilliated Community Representative | 2027 |
| Hess, Burritt | Medical Director, Health Center Scientist | 2027 |
| Holland, Deborah | Assistant Vice Provost for Research Compliance Alternate Non-Scientist | Non-rotating |
| Daniel, David | Senior Research Technology Analyst, ITS Research Technology | Ex officio |
| Riehl, Kit | Associate General Counsel | Ex officio |
As of 2026/08/31