Solo Author Research

[_kita]

So, I've been out of school for about three years, and would like to begin a research project. Though I'm having difficulty finding information on how to start this up. Would I have to go through a university? I'll be contacted a former professor (who's kind of a current mentor too) Or apply for IRB approval myself? Anyone have any tips or suggestions?

Edited March 23, 2012 by psychkita

[ANDS!]

You'd be better suited hooking up with someone at your alma. I've sat on a few IRB's and the reasons they'll send things back seems a bit arbitrary (even though I know it isn't). Something tells me it would just be all around easier to seek out a former instructor for GUIDANCE.

[_kita]

Thanks for the input. I was thinking kind of the same thing.

[lewin]

I daresay it's impossible to conduct human research on your own. It's probably best if you just take my word for it, but if anyone needs convincing here are a few reasons why:

1. Journals won't take a paper that didn't have IRB clearance for all studies so it's basically dead data.

2. Can't get IRB clearance without being supervised by a current faculty member.

3. More immediately, how would you recruit participants and where would you run the study? Without a supervisor you won't have access to undergrads and lab space/equipment.

ETA:....all this means that, yes, you should contact a former prof and see if they have anything for you.

Edited April 5, 2012 by lewin00

[Pauli]

Agreed with above. I didn't know if it was possible to get IRB approval from a research institute without an associated principal investigator from that research institute.