27 July 2017: Version 5.5.1. The IRAS v5.5.1 update implemented a bug fix. All projects in IRAS have been updated to this version. This release does not affect electronic authorisations.

28 June 2017: IRAS updated to v5.5. This version makes the IRAS Form available UK-wide so that new projects can use this form to seek NHS/HSC R&D Permission and REC review (if required) when project is led from Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales. The release also includes updates to ODS code look-up in Part C and duplicate project functionality as well as revisions to guidance and some maintenance updates. Applicants are recommended to refer to the Updates page for detailed information.

8 March 2017: IRAS updated to v5.4.2. This version includes revisions to some embedded guidance and some maintenance updates. Electronic authorisations have not been affected by this update. Please refer to the Updates page for more information.

20 December 2016: IRAS updated to v5.4. This version includes the addition of the ORCID identifier, some updates to the project filter, update of the ODS code look up in Part C, revisions to some embedded guidance and some maintenance updates. Electronic authorisations have not been affected by this update. Please refer to the Updates page for more information.

• Is a single system for applying for the permissions and approvals for health and social care / community care research in the UK
• Enables you to enter the information about your project once instead of duplicating information in separate application forms
• Uses filters to ensure that the data collected and collated is appropriate to the type of study, and consequently the permissions and approvals required
• Helps you to meet regulatory and governance requirements

• Administration of Radioactive Substances Advisory Committee (ARSAC)
• Confidentiality Advisory Group (CAG)
• Gene Therapy Advisory Committee (GTAC)
• Health Research Authority (HRA) for projects seeking HRA Approval
• Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)
• NHS / HSC R&D offices
• NHS / HSC Research Ethics Committees
• National Offender Management Service (NOMS)
• Social Care Research Ethics Committee