Individual divisions in the Department of Medicine (DOM) are responsible for scientific and quality review responsibilities.
This includes conducting scientific and quality reviews of research protocols before submission to the UAB Human Research Protection Program (HRPP)/Institutional Review Board (IRB).
PORF Signatory Training
Access the Preparing Signatories for Scientific and Quality Review course. Select Login with BlazerID
Understanding the Attached Resources
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Heersink IRB Submission Process Document: Institutional requirements and framework.
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Protocol Oversight Review Form (PORF): Required review documentation. DOM will use division-level review effective August 20, 2026.
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PORF Signatory Reference Document: Responsibilities, approvals, and training requirements.
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DOM IRB Pre-Review Checklist: Tool to support scientific and quality review.
Which protocols will need a full review?
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Protocols that have not received a full external peer review
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Investigator initiated protocols
Which protocols will NOT need a review?
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Immediate pass through to the IRB (no SRC review)
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Non-human subject studies
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Exempt submissions
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Studies with an external review with methodology sections
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Federal or foundation funded projects that have gone through a peer-review process of its scientific validity and feasibility, including review of the protocol
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Industry sponsored studies with an IND or IDE reviewed by the FDA
Please note, that these protocols need a DOM PORF but will not require a full SRC review.
Resources
Questions and Support
Contact domresearch@uabmc.edu with questions.