Downstate Earns Prestigious CARE-Q Certification

By Office of the President | Sep 9, 2025

In a trailblazing achievement, the Downstate Institutional Review Board (IRB) earned CARE-Q certification, becoming the first institution outside California to achieve this distinction since CARE-Q opened the process outside the University of California system. This milestone reflects Downstate’s leadership in advancing research protections and setting a new standard for excellence across SUNY and beyond.

The CARE-Q (Consortium for Applied Research Ethics–Quality) certification, developed by the University of California and Stanford, is a peer-driven quality assurance program that affirms IRB offices have clear, compliant procedures for human research protections consistently followed in practice. The rigorous process includes a comprehensive self-assessment, an intensive multi-day peer site visit, and a detailed review identifying strengths and opportunities for growth. Certification is valid for five years, with annual reporting and recertification required to maintain the standard.

By achieving CARE-Q certification, Downstate demonstrates its commitment to regulatory compliance, efficiency, transparency, and continuous improvement.

This historic achievement was made possible through the dedication, collaboration, and support from all IRB Members and key leaders across Downstate, including Heidi J. Aronin, MPA, Chief Administrative Officer and IRB Institutional Official; and David Christini, Ph.D., Senior Vice President for Research. 

This team effort was led by Kevin L. Nellis, MS, MT(ASCP), CIP, Executive Director of Human Research Protection and Quality Assurance. It was supported and assisted by the dedicated IRB Office Team, including Associate IRB Administrators Diann Johnson, MPH; Nikol Celestine, BA, CHRC; Cassandra Charles, BA; and Nakih Gonzales, IRB Coordinator.

Their collective expertise, hard work, and commitment secured this national milestone and elevated Downstate’s reputation as a leader in research excellence and integrity.

Congratulations to all involved for this historic achievement!