Skip to main content

Human Research Concern or Complaint

Quick Exit

For privacy, you can exit at any time.

What is a complaint or concern about human research?

Research participants may have a complaint about their research project or have questions about their rights as a research participant. Those who are not current research participants but may also offer suggestions about our Human Research Protection Program or would like to obtain more information.

Examples of a Human Research Concern

  • Research participation compensation
  • Issues in the informed consent process
  • Communication difficulties reaching the research team
  • Concerns about confidentiality
  • Concerns that research may have been conducted without IRB approval

How to report a human research concern or complaint

Reports can be made via online form or directly to the University’s Institutional Review Board (IRB).

File an Online Report

Reporter: Any individual can use EthicsPoint, which has anonymous reporting options.

Confidentiality: While such complaints will retain anonymity, the University's ability to investigate and respond to anonymous complaints is limited.

File an EthicsPoint Report

Report to the IRB

Reporter: Anyone (a participant or a non-research participant) may report research concerns.

Confidentiality: To the extent permitted by applicable policies and regulations, the IRB maintains the confidentiality of research-related information and respects complainants’ privacy choices. 

Contact the IRB

Support and Resources

The IRB offers support and guidance about human research participation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who will see my report?

Members of the IRB Office Compliance Team. To the extent permitted by applicable policies and regulations, the Institutional Review Board Office maintains the confidentiality of research-related information and respects complainants’ privacy choices. Complainants’ privacy choices may limit the IRB Office’s ability to investigate and respond to complaints or allegations of non-compliance.

What will happen to me after I report?

The IRB Compliance Team will reply to acknowledge receipt and may request additional information.

What are the next steps?

The IRB Compliance Team will investigate the question, concern or complaint.

Know Your Rights: Northwestern's Policy on Non-Retaliation

Northwestern's Policy on Non-Retaliation strictly prohibits retaliation against any member of its community for reporting or inquiring in good faith about suspected wrongful or unlawful activity, or participating in an investigation or proceeding related to such activity. The University considers such actions to be protected activities in which all members may freely engage without worry of negative consequences.