Zipline Application Paths

All applications submitted in Zipline follow one of three review paths. Selecting the correct path before starting your application helps avoid delays and rework.

If you are unsure which path applies to your study, consult HSD by emailing hsdrely@uw.edu before starting.

Option 1: UW Reviewing for UW Only

Choose this option if:

  • The research may be exempt (HSD must make this determination), and/or
  • The research involves only the University of Washington, or
  • Other institutions are involved, but UW will not review on their behalf (for example, the UW IRB generally does not review for the VA).

Key points:

  • Does your project require review? Depending on the particulars of your project, you may not need to submit an IRB application.
  • Most student applications use this pathway. Visit HSD’s Getting Started page to learn more about additional requirements for student PIs.

Next step:

Option 2: UW Reviewing for Other Institutions

Choose this option if:

Key points:

  • HSD must agree in advance to review for other institutions and establish reliance agreements
  • Approval under this path does not approve all sites at once
  • Each relying institution goes through a separate site review and receives a separate site approval

Common examples:

  • UW is the primary recipient of a federal award for a multi site NIH grant
  • Collaborations with local partners (e.g., Seattle Children’s or Fred Hutch) where UW is the primary awardee
  • International studies where UW is the primary recipient of a federal award

Next steps:

Option 3: Non-UW IRB Reviewing

Choose this option if:

  • The research requires IRB review and
  • UW should not serve as the reviewing IRB.

Key points:

  • HSD must agree in advance to cede IRB review and establish reliance agreements

Common examples:

  • An external IRB is designated by the sponsor
  • The study is industry sponsored
  • UW is participating as a relying site in a multi site study

Next steps: