Public Data Sets
The use of data from a publicly available dataset may be considered non-human subject research depending on the details of the project.
The researcher should submit a non-human subject research application by going to the Evaluate My Project tool on the HRPP homepage under the "Is my project a Human Subject Research study?" button.
For additional information regarding types of projects that require or do not require IRB review see Human vs. Non-Human Subject Research.
Two key concepts to consider when requesting a non-human subject research letter for your project that is using a publicly available dataset:
- Don't Combine.
- Don't Reidentify.
If you are combining datasets or reidentifying/enhancing information about an individual, your project may be considered human subject research and could qualify for an exempt determination. Please reach out to ask the IRB if you have questions prior to submitting.
Please note: The list of publicly available datasets that have been approved for use by the IRB in the past are now saved within the Evaluate My Project tool on the HRPP homepage. Including this list electronically within the system should help speed up the submission and review process.
