Clinical research is research that directly involves a particular person or group of people, or that uses materials from humans, such as their behavior or samples of their tissue.
A clinical trial is one type of clinical research that follows a pre-defined plan or protocol. By taking part in clinical trials, participants can not only play a more active role in their own health care, but they can also access new treatments and help others by contributing to medical research.
The NICHD is involved in all aspects of clinical trials and clinical research. Select a link on the left to learn more.
Thinking about taking part in a clinical trial? Then select the Find Clinical Trials link to find out what clinical trials are being conducted on a certain health topic or condition and whether you can get involved.
Doing your own clinical research project? Then select the Guidance for Clinical Researchers link to learn more about the NICHD's clinical research processes and policies.