Marian University has announced a leadership transition for its Institutional Review Board (IRB), a cornerstone of the university’s Human Research Protection Program (HRPP), which ensures that research involving human participants is conducted ethically, safely, and in compliance with regulatory and sponsor expectations.
Effective January 1, 2026, Dr. Tony Ribera, Director of Institutional Research & Assessment, will serve as IRB Chair, and Dr. Shawn O’Connor, Associate Professor of Music and Chair of the Department of Music & Theatre, will serve as IRB Vice-Chair. The HRPP is housed within the Office of Research Operations, Integrity & Compliance.
“As the nation’s first Franciscan research university, we have a responsibility to conduct research in ways that protect human dignity and earn trust,” said Dr. Jonathan Lowery, assistant provost for research and scholarship. “The IRB helps us live our Franciscan Sponsorship Values in practical, meaningful ways and is foundational to our relationships with sponsors and research partners.”
Lowery also expressed gratitude to the outgoing IRB leadership team, Dr. Robyn Fuchs, former chair, and Dr. Noelany Pelc, former vice-chair, for their service and stewardship, noting their contributions to strengthening Marian’s research infrastructure.
Over the past three years, Marian’s HRPP has processed nearly 350 research submissions, reflecting sustained scholarly activity across the university and supporting Marian’s continued momentum toward Carnegie R2 “High Research Activity” designation.
Looking ahead to 2026, the IRB will focus on enhancing both participant protection and the investigator experience by clarifying submission expectations, expanding flexible oversight pathways for certain types of studies, and coordinating more closely with related regulatory programs, including the newly established MU Radiation Safety Program.
Faculty, staff, and students are encouraged to explore Marian’s HRPP resources and FAQs for guidance on when IRB review is required, how the review process works, and how to prepare strong submissions. Additional information is available online or by contacting irb@marian.edu.
Marian University’s Human Research Protection Program is registered with the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services under its Federalwide Assurance (FWA00026788).