You may have heard the word “quorum” used during IRB meetings. The dictionary definition of quorum is “the minimum number of members required to be present at an assembly or meeting before it can validly proceed to transact business.” While federal regulations describe the minimum requirements for IRB membership, they do not specifically define “quorum.” The federal regulations require that each IRB include at least five members with varying backgrounds, and least one member must be a scientist, one must be a non-scientist, and one must be not otherwise affiliated with the institution. The UAMS IRBs each have more than five members listed on their roster. To achieve quorum at meetings, at least one more than half the number of roster members (i.e. a majority), including the nonscientist, must be present. Also, the UAMS IRB’s policy is to have a pediatric representative present at meetings where research involving pediatric subjects is on the agenda.
The IRB cannot review research if a quorum is not present. The board may lose quorum if members recuse due to a conflict, or if the nonscientist has to leave the room. In the worst case, we’d have to cancel a meeting entirely if we are unable to meet quorum requirements for attendance. Therefore, it’s important for you to let us know as soon as possible if you are unable to attend a meeting or have a conflict with any agenda items. With enough notice, we’re usually able to arrange for other members to be present so we can maintain quorum.