July 2008:  The Association for the Accreditation of Human Research Protection Programs, Inc. announced that it has accredited Goodwyn IRB, LLC. Goodwyn IRB, LLC established in 1998, is a central IRB which provides independent review and oversight of clinical research trials. Goodwyn IRB consists of experts from all over North America chosen for their expertise and reputation to provide the highest level of review and protection in all types of human subject research. "Accreditation holds organizations to the highest standards of protection, so each accreditation marks another milestone for research participants and for all of us who are committed to safe, ethical, excellent research," said AAHRPP President and CEO Marjorie A. Speers, Ph.D. Through the rigorous accreditation process, organizations must demonstrate that they have built extensive safeguards into every level of their research operation and that they adhere to the highest standards for research. AAHRPP's standards exceed federal regulations by requiring organizations to address conflict of interest, to provide community outreach and education and to apply the same stringent protections to all research involving human participants. (Under federal regulations, such protections are mandated only for federally sponsored or regulated research.) The accreditation process typically results in system-wide improvements that enhance protections for research participants and promote high-quality research. *About the Association for the Accreditation of Human Research Protection Programs, Inc.* AAHRPP is a nonprofit organization that works with organizations that conduct human research to raise the level of protection for research participants and to promote ethically sound research. The accreditation program utilizes a voluntary, peer-driven, educational model. For organizations interested in learning more about accreditation, visit www.aahrpp.org.

May 2007:  Goodwyn IRB announces that William Dirkes, MD, MBA, has accepted the position of Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.  Dr. Dirkes is responsible for operations and new business development, and will play an integral role in the strategic development of Goodwyn IRB. With Dr. Dirkes' assistance, we will continue to achieve our mission to protect human subjects and foster the positive work environment and spirit of cooperation with colleagues, employees, investigators, research sponsors, and oversight agencies for which Goodwyn IRB has become known.

March 2007:  Goodwyn IRB presents guidance regarding the ethical considerations introduced by global clinical trials.  See our article featured in the Regulatory Affairs Focus Magazine, "GCP and the Ethics Review Committee’s Contribution: What is Good Clinical Practice?"