Introducing eIRB: Improving Human Subjects Research Management

The new eIRB application is now live and designed to make submitting and managing human subjects research at Penn simpler, faster, and more transparent.

Launched on February 9, 2026, eIRB replaces the legacy HSERA system with a modern, intuitive platform built around faculty and research team needs. Note that HSERA will remain read-only for one year.

eIRB streamlines the entire IRB process—from initial submission through approval—so you can spend less time navigating systems and more time focusing on your research.

Key features include:

• Clean, intuitive interface that is easy to learn and use
• Drag-and-drop file uploads for quick document submission
• Built-in guidance and help throughout the application
• Clear visibility into review status, workflow steps, and IRB comments
• Version control and side-by-side comparisons for protocol changes

• Smart e-forms for:
  • Quality Improvement (QI)
  • Not Human Subjects Research (NHSR)
  • Compassionate Use
  • Just-in-Time submissions
  • Ongoing Reviews

• Single IRB support with external site access for multicenter studies
• Easy addition of external personnel, with automatic approvals when certain criteria are met
• Combined submissions for modifications and continuing reviews—no need to submit separately
• Researcher portfolio reporting for ad hoc insights
• Immediate protocol number assignment in a clear, easy-to-reference format (e.g., 26-250)

To reduce duplication of effort and administrative burden, eIRB integrates directly with:

• PennERA
• Research, Interests, and Activities (RIA)
• Institutional Biosafety Commission (IBC)
• Workday