What is the first step in a designated IACUC review?

The first step in a designated IACUC review is to assign a designated reviewer. This step is crucial because it establishes who will be responsible for examining the submitted materials and making a decision on the protocol in question. The designated reviewer is typically a member of the IACUC who has expertise related to the proposal being reviewed. This process allows for a more streamlined and efficient review, ensuring that the submission is considered promptly.

Once the designated reviewer has been assigned, they will review the materials and determine whether they require further deliberation or if they can proceed without a full committee review. This can significantly expedite the review process for protocols that do not involve complex ethical issues or risks. Consequently, the steps that follow this assignment would be sending materials to the designated reviewer rather than setting up a quorum or involving all committee members at the outset.