As researchers, we are obligated to accurately estimate the degree of risk in our research. We typically do this by reading the literature and consulting with colleagues. Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) also will help researchers estimate the degree of risk involved in their studies. An IRB is a group of professionals and members of the community at large who review research proposals to make sure that they follow ethical standards. Every institution that receives federal funding is required to submit all proposals for research with human participants to the IRB. The IRB is an important safeguard but the ethical responsibility for the research ultimately rests with the investigator.

Student research, especially research conducted as part of a class, typically involves little or no risk.