Information for Research Participants

Are you thinking about participating in research? Here’s what you should know!

• Research is a study to answer a particular question. Research seeks to contribute to knowledge on a wide variety of topics and conditions.
• Taking part in research is voluntary. You get to decide whether you want to participate.
• Research might not benefit you personally. Some people decide to participate because they feel strongly about the importance of research and want to help advance knowledge.
• The research team can help answer questions about what participating in a particular study would entail, what the risks and benefits are, and what would happen with the information you provide them. Typically, study teams will provide you with a written copy of information about the study.  Here are some questions you might ask about a research study to help decide if volunteering is right for you.
• For more information about volunteering for research, check out the Office for Human Research Protections’ short informational videos made specifically for potential research volunteers.