The individuals who take part in TLI research – referred to as “human subjects” – do so voluntarily. The knowledge gained through our studies and trials would not be possible without their willingness to participate. So, thank you for your interest in learning more!
Deciding whether to become a research participant is an important, personal, and voluntary choice. It should also be an informed one. You deserve clear and complete answers to all your questions before deciding to take part.
The Lundquist Institute is committed to ensuring that all human research is conducted ethically, with a strong focus on protecting the rights and welfare of every participant.
Are you considering joining a research study? This page has information to help you decide. If you are currently a study participant, this page also contains information about providing feedback or voicing a concern or complaint.
What is an IRB?
An Institutional Review Board (IRB) is a group of people who review and approve human research. The IRB includes medical people, scientists, and people from the local community. They review human research to make sure it is well-planned and ethical.
The IRB serves to protect your rights and your welfare before and during the research study. For example, the IRB makes sure that any risks are as small as possible. The IRB does not make a decision for you. The IRB decides whether it is right to ask people whether they want to take part in a research study. The IRB also reviews each research study while it is going on to make sure volunteers are protected.
Should I Take Part in a Research Study?
There are many reasons to participate in a research study.
You may want to:
- Help find a cure for an illness
- Help other people who are sick
- Help find ways to provide better care
- Help scientists find out more about how the human body and mind work
- Take part in a research study that is trying to find a better treatment for a condition that you have.
If you decide to take part in a research study, you do so as a VOLUNTEER. That means YOU decide whether or not you will take part. If you choose to do so, you have many important rights.
Are there Resources I Can Review before Enrolling in a Study?
Here are some resources from the Office of Human Research Protections (OHRP) that explain different aspects of research that may help you ask questions and make a decision about being a research participant:
In addition, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service’s Office for Human Research Protections has developed a public outreach website: About Research Participation. This website offers resources designed to help potential volunteers better understand research and find the information they need to decide whether to participate.
Why Haven’t I Received My Payment for Participation Yet?
If the study you participated in is compensating you and you have not received that compensation, please contact the study team directly. Only contact the OIRB if you are not able to resolve it directly.
Have a Concern or Complaint Related to a Study?
If you have a concern or a complaint about a study, please contact our office at [email protected] or 310.222.3624.
To best provide you with timely assistance, please describe the issue and reference the following if known:
- Principal Investigator/Researcher name
- IRB #
- Study title
This information should be included in the study’s recruitment or informed consent materials.