NOTE: Completing CITI training does not automatically register you into eIRB (system which is used to submit research protocols for IRB review). CITI and eIRB are two separate systems. You may submit an eIRB application to the IRB for review while working on the CITI training. However, IRB approval will not be given until the CITI training has been successfully completed. The IRB staff will verify that training requirements for investigators are current.

Consistent with other USC policies, the IRB defines key personnel as “any individual responsible for the design, conduct, or reporting of research.”

Only those key personnel that are “engaged in the research” must complete human subjects training and register into eIRB.

 

eIRB Registration

• Access eIRB.
• Select your Home institution/Affiliated Organization and select continue.
  Login using your USC username and password. If you do not know your USC username login to VIP, select “Technology” and “Network Username.” Your assigned username will be displayed. You can update your password on this screen. If you need assistance with this process, call the DoIT Help Desk at (803) 777-1800.
• Complete the eIRB registration form.
  • Title on the form refers to your affiliation title (e.g. associate professor, professor, graduate student, study coordinator, research assistant).
  • Business address refers to the local USC address. If you are a student, use the college/school/department address that you are affiliated with at USC, or use your mentor’s department address.
  • Phone numbers should be direct lines or cell numbers, avoid using a department’s main number.
• You must be affiliated with USC to register in the eIRB system. The registration form must be validated. The validation process is not automatic and may take two to three business days before you receive an email message stating that you have access to the eIRB system.
• If you need assistance with the registration process, call (803) 576-7276.

Human Subjects Training

Prior to receiving final IRB approval, all investigators and staff involved in research with human subjects must complete a specified training course. The University uses the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) web-based human research courses to satisfy this requirement. Re-certification of training is required every three years.

Investigators are encouraged to complete the training prior to beginning the eIRB application process. The training provides information and context that will assist with completing the application.