Formation of School-based SRC/IRB

A school-based SRC may be formed to assist the Affiliated Fair SRC in reviewing and approving projects. All SRC members must be familiar with the ISEF Rules and Guidelines during the review process. These guidelines are intended to ensure the safety of students, to protect the subjects and environments studied and to limit the liability of the adults who assist with the projects. Hence, it is important that the SRC ensures all projects abide by these rules and guidelines.

An IRB is a committee that must evaluate the potential physical and/or psychological risk of research involving humans. All proposed human research must be reviewed and approved by an IRB before experimentation begins. This includes a review of any surveys or questionnaires to be used in the project.

The Affiliated Fair SRC may override the decision of a school-based SRC/IRB if the decision is deemed inappropriate.

The ISEF International Rules and Guidelines further elaborate on the composition and responsibilities of the review committees. Schools that are interested to set up their SRCs/IRBs are to complete the acknowledgement form here and submit via email to upstream@science.edu.sg or mail it to:

Attn: Science Upstream (SSEF 2026)
Science Centre Singapore
15 Science Centre Road
Singapore 609081

A reply endorsing the setting up of any new school-based SRCs/IRBs must be given by the Fair Director before the review committee can perform their role.