Can I recruit my own students or people in my employ to participate in my research?
An Investigator’s use of students, employees, or other subordinates as research participants presents the possibility for undue influence or even coercion. The regulatory requirements for IRB review and approval provide that when some or all of the participants are likely to be vulnerable because of a power differential, additional safeguards are needed to protect the rights and welfare of these participants. (See 45 CFR 46.111(b)). This also applies in cases of incidental enrollment of students and subordinates when they meet study criteria but are not a target population, including healthy volunteers. Although it is possible to recruit students, employees, and others who may be susceptible to coercion or undue influence on your projects, in such situations, the IRB will review the protocol, recruitment plan, and research procedures to ensure that participation is voluntary, private and confidential, and that the decision to participate or not participate will not affect grades, class standing or employment in any way. Contact the IRB Office if you have any questions about building the necessary protections into your research process.