Becoming a Research Participant

For information about the types of research studies currently involving humans at The Miami Project, see  the Active Studies  and Clinical Science sections.

Researchers rely on individuals with SCI to serve as volunteers for specific studies or protocols. Each study is designed to answer questions about some aspect of SCI or the effectiveness of a particular treatment.

Many people with SCI wish to serve as research volunteers for Miami Project studies, but because of the specific nature of research protocols, not everyone is able to participate. A limited number of people meet the criteria and/or have the ability to make a commitment to participate in a particular study. Through the commitment of relatively few volunteers, knowledge gained and communicated to other centers ultimately benefits many people with SCI.

To be accepted in a research program the potential volunteer must:

• fit the criteria for a specific study
• be invited to participate by the investigator
• be able to commit the time and resources for the duration of the study
  
  Depending on the study, the time commitment varies from two days to one year. Most studies require that the individual live in the Miami area for the duration of the study.

  The Miami Project does not charge volunteers, nor do we generally provide compensation for participation in clinical trials. Expenses and arrangements for accommodations, meals, and medical care are the volunteer's responsibility for the duration of the study.

Interested in being considered?
To be considered for current and future Miami Project research studies, you may complete an Intake Form. Information from the Intake Form will be maintained in The Miami Project's database as a resource for Miami Project researchers.

To receive an Intake Form:

• Download and print a copy and return the completed form to the address indicated (you will need Adobe Reader to view this file.)  
  
  
• or  send us a message with your name and full mailing address.  We will send the Intake Form by mail with a packet of information.

Other articles related to Research Participation

Experimental Treatments for Spinal Cord Injury: What You Should Know if you are considering participation in a clinical trial from the International Campaign for Cures of spinal cord injury Paralysis (ICCP)

Spring 1997 Extra: Answering the Call: Subjects Step Forward

Download Intake Form