Research Subject Information

In its supportive role to the NU Human Subjects Protections Policy (NU HSPP), OPRS assumes primary responsibility for ensuring that the important functions for the HSPP are executed promptly and documented in accordance with federal regulatory and NU policy requirements.

If you are a research subject who has a complaint about a research project you are involved in or if you have questions about your "rights" as a research subject, you may contact Eileen Yates, our IRB Manager of Training and Quality Assurance at (312) 503-6011. If she is unavailable you may call our main line at (312) 503-9338 and somebody will assist you.

You may also file an anonymous complaint of non-compliance using the EthicsPoint website. EthicsPoint is a secure service provided to the research and academic community that allows the reporter to remain anonymous and yet report possible non-compliance to relevant institutional officials, and receive feedback from those same officials.

Please Remember Every Research Subject:

• Has the right to be treated with respect, including respect for their decision whether or not you wish to continue or stop being in the study.
• Is free to choose to stop being in the study at any time.
• Must read the consent form and have the research study explained to them. They must be given time to ask questions, and must be told whom to contact if they have any more questions.
• Must be given a copy of the consent form after they have signed it.

Basic Elements of Informed Consent (Word Document)

Understanding Clinical Trials

Choosing to participate in a clinical trial is an important personal decision. The following frequently asked questions provide detailed information about clinical trials. In addition, it is often helpful to talk to a physician, family members, or friends about deciding to join a trial. After identifying some trial options, the next step is to contact the study research staff and ask questions about specific trials.

• FAQs regarding Clinical Trials

US Department of Health and Human Services Educational Materials for your review:

• OHRP/PRIM&R "Investigator 101" CD ROM Ordering Information
• Institutional Review Board (IRB) Guidebook Online
• IRB Guidebook and Videotape "Protecting Human Subjects" Ordering Information
• Pamphlet: Becoming a Research Volunteer: It's Your Decision.
• Folleto: Ser Voluntario en Estudios Clinicos: Es Su Decision