Learn about Research

Don't know much about research but want to get involved? You've come to the right place. There are many ways to take part in research! 

What is a research study?

All of the studies listed on this site are research studies. A research study is a scientific way of learning more about nature, humans, and disease. Many research studies are looking to partner with participants to learn more about specific topics. It is always 100% up to you to decide if you want to participate in a research study.   

Medical care is what you normally receive at your doctor’s office or from another caregiver to treat a health condition. Medical care is different from research. You can still receive medical care from a physician if you do not participate in research. 

There are different ways to design how a research study will be done.  Studies can be pretty basic or very complex.  Basic studies may only need people to answer questions, fill out diaries or even play computer games. Complex studies may ask volunteers to use a device that has never been tested before or to stay in the hospital while they take a certain medicine. The same basic goal guides all studies: understanding and improving human health, wellbeing, and knowledge.

Did you know?

When a research study is about disease or human health, it is called a clinical research study. 

When a research study involves drugs or other therapies that aim to slow or stop a disease, then it is called a clinical trial

Why should I participate in a research study?

There are many different reasons to participate in a research study. You may have a disease or condition and are seeking alternative treatment. You may want to help scientists answer research questions for the benefit of others.  Regardless of your motivation, it is important to take the time to consider the risks and benefits of participating. Discuss your decision with your loved ones, your doctor, and the research team. Be an informed participant!

Participation in a research study could be as simple as taking a 5-minute online survey or it could be as complex as taking a brand new medication that is still being tested – there are also studies for everything in between.  Here at Research for Me @UNC, there is something for everyone, no matter who you are, how much time you have, what your motivation, or what you are interested in doing.

Explore more about research

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Copyright © 2013-2022 The NC TraCS Institute, the integrated home of the NIH Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSA) Program at UNC-CH.  This website is made possible by CTSA Grant UL1TR002489 and the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences.

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