Information for Potential Research Participants

The University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) is a major research university and the largest university in the Chicagoland area.  In addition to our commitment to educating our students and creating and sharing new knowledge, UIC also ensures that protection is extended to all who participate in research conducted by UIC faculty, staff, and students.

While many UIC research studies take place at the University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences System (UI Health), research projects are conducted in a variety of departments and settings, both on and off the University campus and within the local communities.  UIC researchers with a wide variety of interests conduct research studies for many purposes, including finding the best way to manage or improve your health and learning more about human behavior.

In all research involving human subjects (also known as participants), the Office for the Protection of Research Subjects (OPRS) provides UIC researchers with the support that is necessary to ensure that the protection of the subject is at the center of research practices at UIC.

A key component of the subject protections program is the review of research studies by independent boards, known as Institutional Review Boards (IRBs).  These boards are made up of faculty members, scientists, non-scientists, physicians, and nurses, as well as members of the local community who have no connection with the university.

The IRB must determine that the research plan is well developed, will provide an answer to a specific question, and that there are proper safeguards in place to protect the rights, safety and well-being of study participants.  The IRB also makes sure that research subjects’ rights and OPRS contact information are explained in every informed consent document. The IRB receives updates on the progress of the research at specific intervals to ensure that the study is being carried out as planned and that any safety concerns are addressed in a timely and proper manner.

Below are a number of resources that you may find helpful in understanding research, whether participation in research is right for you, and questions you may want to consider when deciding whether to take part in a research study.

 

Are you interested in research opportunities? Or, looking for more information about Clinical Trials?

UIC Researchers place advertisements in newspapers, on the internet, and flyers on bulletin boards throughout the university campus. You might want to speak with your doctor to find out if there are any clinical trials that may be of interest to you and for which you may qualify.

Another way to search for information is to refer to the following websites:

 

Are you thinking about enrolling your child in a research study?

UIC researchers are working on studies that involve children, and the UIC IRB ensures that children receive special protections.

Visit the following links and web addresses for information about pediatric research and protections specific to children participating in research studies.

 

Are you already a participant in a research study at UIC and have questions about your rights?

Call the Office for the Protection of Research Subjects (OPRS) at 312-996-1711 (local) or 1-866-789-6215 (toll free) or email OPRS at uicirb@uic.edu to

  • discuss problems, concerns, or questions
  • obtain information
  • offer input
  • make a complaint

 

Are you looking for additional information on participating in research studies?

Office of Human Research Protections (OHRP)

 U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

 National Institute of Health (NIH)

Research Participation at UIC Brochure