One of the goals of the CN IRB is to help promote quality research in the tribe – to that end, we like to help researchers ensure that studies are conducted appropriately to benefit both the Cherokee people and the scientists. The following page will provide researchers with advice and information aimed at resolving any questions or difficulties that may arise during the development of study design. It is strongly recommended that everyone look for official guidance on this page before contact the CN IRB for advice. However, please don’t hesitate to contact us if you need additional help at irb@cherokee.org

Links to third-party research websites.

Multiple Downloads

HIPPA Tree

270.4 KB | Updated May 7, 2019

Determining when HIPAA applies to health research.

Helicopter Research

304.1 KB | Updated May 7, 2019

Any investigation within the community in which a researcher collects data leaves to disseminate it, and never again has contact with the tribe.

Tribal Research

135.3 KB | Updated May 7, 2019

Guide on conducting research within tribal communities within the Cherokee Nation.

Proposal Guidance

242.3 KB | Updated May 7, 2019

Checklist intended as an aid in suggesting a format for writing protocols and in identifying issues that scientists should consider.

Study Closure Guidance

256.2 KB | Updated May 7, 2019

Cherokee Nation IRB (CNIRB) defines closure of research as to when no further research, follow-up, or data analyses will be performed on a study.

Renewal Guidance

434.4 KB | Updated May 7, 2019

Federal regulations require an IRB to conduct substantive, meaningful continuing review of human subject research that is within the IRB's jurisdiction.

Lay Summary Guide

265.5 KB | Updated May 7, 2019

Summary of research project goals, activities, and findings, that is used to explain complex scientific theories and technical terms to non-scientific people.

Tribal Sponsor Guide

307.4 KB | Updated May 7, 2019

Tribal Sponsor will always be an employee of the Cherokee Nation and should be an authority in the area of your subject matter.

Informed Consent Guide

266 KB | Updated May 7, 2019

Informed Consent must be obtained for all types of human subjects research.

Updated January 28, 2026