Closing Studies

When projects are completed, the Principle Investigator is required to close the investigation by removing all identifying information from any data collected for the project. If the investigator retains original data and/or consent forms, consent documents must be separated from the stored data, and the data themselves should not include any identifying information. All documents should be stored in a secured location on University property or in a secure archive facility from which they may be recalled as necessary.

The IRB will close studies automatically when the study's period of approval has expired and the investigator has not filed a request for study renewal. Investigators who wish to formally close their investigations (as is sometimes required by funders) should file the Renewal/Closure Form with the IRB.