The IRB is part of the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS). Its purpose is to ensure that human research involving VDSS clients does not violate a client's right to privacy and protects them from harm or risk. The board reviews research proposals and data requests to determine how federal and state human research subject regulations apply to proposed research activities. These proposals could involve human research activities conducted or authorized by any of the following:

• VDSS
• Local departments of social services
• VDSS-licensed facilities; and
• VDSS-authorized contractors

An IRB review is required when:

• The project involves human subjects
• The project is considered research
• The project qualifies for expedited review
• The project qualifies for exemption review (a shorter review, sufficient to determine the qualification for exemption)

The most important question to consider is "What individual identifying information will the researcher need to conduct the research?"

2012 FY

• 1-2-3 READ! Virginia (2010-2011) (PDF)
• Kinship Diversion Qualitative Research Study (2010-2011)(Summary only) (DOCX)
• Kinship Diversion Qualitative Research Study, 2010-2011 (PowerPoint presentation) (PPTX)
• Virginia Infant and Toddler Specialist Network Evaluation Study (2011-2012) (PDF)

2011 FY

• VA Infant and Toddler Specialist Network, Final Report (2010-2011) (PDF)

2010 FY

• 2010 (PDF)
• Decisionmaking and Child Welfare (Stephen Proctor, Penn State) (PDF)

2009 FY

• 2009 (PDF)

2008 FY

• 2008 (PDF)

2007 FY

• 2007 (PDF)

2006 FY

• 2006 (PDF)

2005 FY

• 2005 (PDF)