ESCRO Committee

Applications in the field of cell therapy and innovative research programs in this area at Emory University have grown. It is important to remember that there are regulations and ethical guidelines in place that must be considered when embarking on Embryonic or iHESC research. The Emory University policy on the conduct of this research has been developed to provide guidance in complying with those regulations. In order to provide stem cell research oversight when required, the Office of Research Administration established an Embryonic Stem Cell Research Oversight (ESCRO) Committee. ESCRO members are appointed by and serve as an advisor to the Institutional Official. The members of the ESCRO reflect the scientific, medical, and ethical expertise necessary to perform a thorough review.

Currently, we are transitioning this policy from the School of Medicine to Emory University. The information in the policy would be similar, just hosted in a central location.

Policy for the use of Human Embryonic Stem Cells and Induced Human Pluripotent Stem-Cells (PDF)

If review is required by a research sponsor or cell source, then the Emory ESCRO committee shall provide a review in accordance with the review requirements of the sponsor/cell source.

Note: You may have additional review requirements by the IRB, IACUC or EHSO. Please review this chart to determine if you require ESCRO or additional reviews.

To apply for review, fill out this form to provide the study and cell use information

Attachments must include:

  • EHSO submisison and approval
  • Study protocol with a scientific description of the study design and research procedures. This should include the hypothesis to be tested as well as a general description of the methodology to be used.
  • Please also include a scientific rationale for why these cells are needed to answer the scientific questions.
  • Lay summary explaining the purpose and methodology of the study in lay terms. Please, include your analysis of any ethical implications that may arise for your study now or in the future.
  • If the research plan includes the creation of new lines, please contact us at researchcompliance@emory.edu for more information.
  • Proof of IRB/IACUC determination as to whether it constitutes human or animal stem cell research and their approval.