Yes, it is possible to conduct research in your workplace. However, research at your own place of employment creates a potential conflict of interest (COI). Depending on the nature of your study, this conflict may be manageable. The majority of studies proposing to conduct research in the researcher’s workplace are approved. However, with certain studies, the conflict of interest can present potential risks to participants or introduce elements of coercion to the study that can only be mitigated by changing research sites.

The IRB recommends that if your study involves a vulnerable population on a sensitive topic that you contact the IRB Office to request a risk consult early on and to talk through the potential COI.

Consult the Conflict of Interest resources on iGuide for further information on identifying, managing and mitigating COIs.