Integrated Research Application System (IRAS)

The Integrated Research Application System (IRAS) is a single online system for applying for permissions and approvals for health and social care/community research in the UK. 

If your study involves NHS patients you will need to apply for NHS REC ethics approval through IRAS. If the study involves NHS staff or premises but not patients you may still need approval from the Research & Development office (or equivalent) and apply via IRAS for this.

All research requiring the collaboration of the NHS needs a sponsor to comply with the Department of Health Research Governance framework and Clinical Trials Regulations.