Exploring ways to encourage participation in clinical trials

Using Nudges to Recruit Human Subjects in Clinical & Translational Research

NIH-funded research Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11084368

This study is looking at friendly ways to encourage people to join clinical trials, like using surveys and community outreach, while also making sure that these methods are ethical and respectful, especially when it comes to trials that might have different risks and benefits.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCase Western Reserve University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-11084368 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how behavioral economics techniques, known as 'nudges', can be ethically used to recruit participants for clinical trials. It aims to understand the effectiveness of various nudging strategies, such as screening surveys and community engagement, in increasing participation rates. The study will also assess participants' perceptions of these nudges and their ethical implications, particularly in trials with different levels of risk and benefit. By examining these factors, the research seeks to improve recruitment methods in biomedical research.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who are considering participation in clinical trials.

Not a fit: Patients who are not eligible for clinical trials or those who are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and ethical recruitment strategies for clinical trials, ultimately increasing patient participation and improving research outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that behavioral nudges can effectively influence decision-making, suggesting potential success for this approach in clinical trial recruitment.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.