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.
Committee Members, 2025-2026
| Benson, Nicholas | Educational Psychology | |
| Blanchet, Paul | Communication Science and Disorders | |
| Burney, Jenessa | Pharmacology (Non-Affilliated), Community Representative | |
| Holland, Deborah | Research Compliance (Alt Non Scientist) | |
| Horton, Dennis | Religion | |
| Meraz, Rebecca | Nursing, (Alternate for any Scientist | |
| Muramoto, Matt | Staff Physician, Baylor Health Services | |
| Polson, Clay | Social Work | |
| Prater, Lyn | Nursing | |
| Riehl, Kit | General Counsel | |
| Roberts, James | Business and Marketing | |
| Rowatt, Wade, Chair | Psychology | |
| Schlueter, David | Communication | |
| Shafer, Dan, Vice Chair | Mass Communication | |
| Sneed, Richard | Philosophy | |
| Tsang, Jo-Ann | Psychology |