What is the primary function of the institutional review board (IRB) in research?

The primary function of the institutional review board (IRB) is to ensure that ethical standards are met and that the rights of participants involved in research are protected. The IRB is responsible for reviewing research proposals to assess potential risks to participants and ensure that the benefits of the research outweigh those risks. This process includes evaluating informed consent procedures, privacy protections, and the overall ethical implications of the research. By doing so, the IRB upholds the principles of respect for persons, beneficence, and justice, which are fundamental to conducting ethical research involving human subjects.

The other options do not accurately capture the core responsibilities of the IRB. While financial oversight, publication management, and facilitating collaboration are critical elements of research, they fall outside the specific ethical oversight role of the IRB.