University of Nebraska–Lincoln

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Institutional Review Board (IRB)


NEW URC Review No Longer Required



NUgrant IRB module available now!

Register Here for Training. Available Training Sessions:
  • Wednesday, April 30th, 9:00-10:30 a.m.
  • Wednesday, June 11th, 1:00-2:30 p.m.
  • Wednesday, July 23rd, 1:00-2:30 p.m.
  • Wednesday, September 3rd, 9:00-10:30 a.m.
  • Wednesday, October 15th, 1:00-2:30 p.m.


The Institutional Review Board (IRB) is transitioning to an on-line IRB form submission process through NUgrant (the UNL electronic research management portal). The NUgrant portal is available for use to submit new IRB protocols, request continuing review, and to request modifications at the following url: http://nugrant.unl.edu

On-line submission of new IRB protocols, continuing reviews, and requested modifications is required beginning July 1, 2007.

Some of the advantages of using NUgrant include:

  • Streamlined routing process. There will be no need to hand-deliver or mail material. The IRB review process will be conducted completely on-line. No longer will be there will be a delay of several days between protocol submission to the IRB office and Unit Review Committee (URC) receipt, or between URC approval and return to the IRB office for subsequent review. Each of these steps will occur with a click of a button electronically.
  • Clear protocols. Although the IRB protocol information to be submitted electronically through NUgrant are drawn directly from that required on the old paper forms, drop down boxes are used to speed up form completion. Further queries for information are solicited only if particular boxes are checked - reducing confusion and minimizing completion time.
  • Efficient form completion. Not all of the questions on the old paper form will have to be answered, as NUgrant electronically populates many fields. Developing new and revised forms is easier with the form duplication feature to carryover information from previous protocols.
  • 24/7 access. IRB protocols, continuing reviews, requested modifications can be submitted from anywhere in the world and at any time.
  • Enhanced communication. Real time, status updates are available electronically, permitting an investigator to check at what stage of processing your protocol is. Automated notifications will be sent out to investigators for continuing review requests and CITI training updates.
  • Faster funding release. IRB approval links directly to Sponsored Programs to enable quicker release of funds.

View the upcoming training schedule for the NUgrant IRB module. The training sessions will cover NUgrant procedures for submitting a new protocol, applying for continuing review, or requesting for change in an existing protocol. Space is limited at each training session; please register now.

The IRB staff also are available for individual email/phone consultation and a departmental training can be scheduled if needed. For your assistance, below are quick reference guides for the modules:



(all quick guides are in .pdf format. If you need to download the acrobat reader, click here)
NUgrant IRB Quick Guides
IRB New Protocol Quick Guide
IRB Change Request Quick Guide
IRB Continuing Review Quick Guide
IRB Final Report Quick Guide