Human Research Protection Program
Why would I want to be a human subject in research?
Joe, a Purdue University student, is looking to pick up some extra cash. He sees a flyer on a kiosk. The flyer is looking for people to participate in a research study. Joe decides becoming a subject in a research study about peanuts is a good way for him to make the extra money he wants for a PDA. (He notes that he may learn more about himself and heart disease, something he is concerned about since it runs in his family.) He also reads that there may be benefits in the study of heart disease, which runs in his family. His friend Jill wisely advises him to get more information before signing up for a study that requires a controlled diet and stool collection.
Joe calls Carol, the graduate student administering the experiment for more information. She answers his general questions about what the research involves. Joe then picks up an application, fills it out and is notified by email later that he has been accepted and needs to fill out an Informed Consent form.
TOP 10 Questions to ask about Human Subject Recruitment
- What interests me about this study?
- Why do I want to participate in this study?
- When does the study take place — times of day, days of week?
- Where do I go to participate in the study?
- How long does this study last?
- Do I feel this is an okay and safe study to participate in?
- Does the information about this study come from a reliable source?
- Who will gain from my participation in the study?
- Has this study been reviewed by an Institutional Review Board (IRB) for scientific validity and participant safety?
- Do I feel pressured or obligated to participate in this study?