Governance · Institute for Human Evolution

Operational Structure

The Institute operates through three distinct arms, each with its own editorial standards and outputs.

Research Division Conducts original studies and meta-analyses across the four focus areas. Publishes openly (preprints + peer-reviewed venues). Partners with universities for IRB oversight. Maintains a public methods registry.
Applied Programs Division Translates research into structured learning programs. Programs are piloted, measured, and revised based on outcome data. Operates on a sliding-scale and scholarship model. Surplus revenue funds research.
Public Education Division Books, courses, public talks, and accessible writing translating the research for general audiences. Maintains editorial standards consistent with the Research Division.

Independent Governance

Scientific Advisory Board (SAB)

Six to ten named researchers from cognitive science, behavioral psychology, relationship science, public health, and ethics.
Reviews research agendas and major publications.
Meets quarterly; produces an annual review letter.

Independent Ethics Committee (IEC)

Three to five members including an ethicist, a clinician, and a community representative.
Reviews every protocol and program before launch and annually thereafter.
Has authority to halt any program found to violate ethical standards.

Founder Role & Limits

The founder serves as Director or Executive Chair, with explicit limits:

Cannot override SAB or IEC on matters within their remit.
Discloses all related-entity economic interests.
Subject to the same publication and ethics standards as any other staff member.

Funding & Independence

Sources

Individual donations
Philanthropic grants
Program tuition (sliding scale)
Licensing of research to vetted partners

Disclosure standards

All funding sources above $5,000 disclosed annually.
Conflicts of interest disclosed at point of relevance.
Founder's commercial entities structurally separate; any licensing relationship disclosed and reviewed by an independent board member.

Independence protections

No single donor may fund more than 25% of operating budget.
IEC has authority to refuse funding from sources that compromise independence.
Editorial independence of Research and Public Education Divisions protected by bylaws.

A working document

IHE is at the foundational stage. The Scientific Advisory Board and Independent Ethics Committee are being constituted. Names and bios will be published as members are seated. Researchers interested in advisory roles are invited to get in touch.

An institution built for credibility and independence.