Should I participate in a research study?
Becoming a Research Volunteer: It's Your Decision

What is a research study?

A research study is an organized activity that is done to determine an answer to a question or problem. Scientists perform research studies because they do not know for sure what works best to help patients. A study may be done to determine the best way to treat or prevent an illness. A study may use a survey to help understand health needs, problems, or feelings.

One specific type of research study is called a clinical trial. A clinical trial is a study of a medical treatment in human participants. The medical treatment can be a drug; a surgical device such as an artificial hip; a medical device such as an insulin pump; or a surgical technique. The purpose of a clinical trial is to answer questions about safety and effects. Clinical trials are used to decide whether the best treatments are being used or to help the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) decide whether or not to approve a treatment for use.

• Should I participate in a research study?
• What is a research study?
• Are there any benefits and/or risks to being in a research study?
• Who pays for clinical research?
• What are my rights if I take part in a study?
• What should I consider before participating in a research study?
• What is informed consent?
• How is the safety of the study participant protected?
• What is an Institutional Review Board (IRB)?
• Mayo Clinic’s Institutional Review Board (IRB)
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