Clinical Research

What is clinical research?

What's a research study all about?

Research studies can look different depending on what’s being studied. Some are super simple — like giving permission for researchers to check your child’s medical records or use leftover blood or tissue from routine care.

Other studies might involve:

• Quick chats, surveys, or questionnaires
• Blood or urine samples
• Scans like x-rays or MRIs
• Clinical trials (these are explained more below)

Each study is different — but you’ll always know what’s involved before you decide.

What do Research Participants do?

Every study is different. A member of the research team will explain what your role, rights, and responsibilities are in the study. Your main contact may be the research coordinator, research nurse, or another team member.

Before you agree to participate, make sure you know who your main contact is and how to reach him or her.

For more information about being a research participant, please see our educational materials, videos, and resources.