Human Research Protection FAQs

Seal with USMC eagle globe and anchor in the center with the words People Process Purpose around the center, with the top banner that states "Manpower Plans & Policy, and the bottom banner that states "Manpower & Reserve Affairs".

Manpower Analysis Branch (MPA)

Quantico, Virginia

When do HSR regulations and HRPP policies apply to activities involving human subjects?

If your study meets the definition of Human Subject Research, the HRPP regulations and policies apply. Investigators cannot make this determination themselves. Study details must be submitted to the HRPP/IRB for an applicability review. Please see the Investigators tab on the left-hand side bar for more information.

Is there a difference between the HRPP/IRB review process for internal research versus external research?

Yes, there is a difference between the way internal and external research is reviewed and process. Projects conducted by Marine Corps personnel, supported by the Marine Corps, and unaffiliated research requests do not follow the same HRPP review process. Please see the Investigators tab for more information.

I am sure my study is going to be found human subjects research, do I still need to do an applicability review or can I begin by just completing a full HRPP application?

An applicability review needs to be conducted for ALL projects, regardless of the likelihood that they will or will not be found to be human subjects research. Information in the applicability review can be re-used when completing the full application.

How long will the HRPP process take?

This depends on a number of factors. Such as whether your study is found to be human subjects research, whether you are using external consultants, and how much time is spent completing forms. In general, applicability reviews are conducted within 5 business days. If your study is found to be human subjects research the process will be significantly longer. Please make sure to plan accordingly.

My study needs to go out tomorrow, but I did not go through the appropriate process for HRPP, can you speed the process up for me?

No, the HRPP incorporates elements and individuals from throughout the Marine Corps and Navy chains-of-command; it is not possible to skip steps in the process or to force individuals to speed up the time frame.

When may I begin recruitment, data collection, or working with data sets?

You must receive written approval from the IRB before beginning subject recruitment, data collection, or data analysis. Determinations and approval letters are sent to investigators via email.

How do I submit a package to the Institutional Review Board (IRB)?

Please see the Investigators tab on the left-hand side bar for more information.

My project includes a survey, interviews, or focus groups. Is approval from the HRPP/IRB and the Survey Control Officer the same?

No, each review is independent of each other, when required. These activities must be submitted, reviewed, and approved in accordance with MCO 5300.18. For questions and guidance contact the USMC Survey Control Officer: Dr. Marnie Sutton, marnie.sutton@usmc-mccs.org.

Can I use SurveyMonkey?

No, SurveyMonkey is NOT authorized for use in the Marine Corps. If you would like more information, please contact the USMC Survey Control Officer.

If we are going to have a contractor conduct the study and analysis, who is responsible for going through the HRPP process?

Please see the Investigators tab on the left-hand side bar for more information.

My research should be exempt, do I still need to follow the HRPP processes?

Exempt Research is still Human Subject Research (HSR) and needs to be reviewed by the IRB. Investigators may not determine which studies are excluded from IRB review. Please contact the HRPP POC for more information.

What do I need to do if a Principal Investigator (PI) or Co-Investigator is leaving M&RA?

If the project will continue, an amendment request must be submitted to the IRB. The study may be closed if the study will not continue when the PI departs.