ClinicalTrials.gov
OFFICIAL REGISTRYThe primary public registry for many clinical studies. Use filters for recruiting status, location, and condition.
Find Studies
A practical search workflow for identifying legitimate opportunities and confirming logistics before scheduling a screening visit.
Last updated: February 27, 2026
Recommended starting points
Prefer official registries and primary sources. Treat third-party listings as leads that require verification.
NIH: Clinical Trials Information
PRIMARY INFONIH educational guidance on clinical research and how to evaluate participation opportunities.
Local academic/medical centers
LOCAL SEARCHHospitals, universities, and dedicated research centers may recruit through their own participant pages.
Search workflow
PRACTICAL- Define your target: healthy volunteer vs condition-specific.
- Apply filters: recruiting status, location, timing windows.
- Review eligibility: avoid self-disqualifying too early; focus on major exclusions.
- Shortlist 3–5 options: keep notes for each.
- Contact the site: request logistics in writing when possible.
- Verify legitimacy: consistent answers, site identity, and professional consent process.
- Decide: compare burden, schedule fit, and compensation terms.
Search note builder
This tool formats a structured note you can use when you contact sites or compare listings.
How to read a listing
Focus on logistics and feasibility. Advertising language is rarely the full picture.
Key fields to extract
| Field | What you need to know |
|---|---|
| Recruiting status | Recruiting / not yet recruiting / active not recruiting. |
| Location(s) | Where visits occur and whether travel is realistic. |
| Visit schedule | Number of visits, duration, and timing windows. |
| Procedures | Labs, imaging, fasting, device use, diaries, overnights. |
| Eligibility | Major inclusion/exclusion criteria; medication restrictions. |
| Compensation | Per visit, completion bonus, reimbursements, payment timing. |
Call script
Hello, I am calling about the study listing for [study title/condition].
Before I schedule screening, could you confirm:
• whether you are currently recruiting
• total number of visits and estimated visit duration
• any overnight stays, fasting, labs, or imaging
• diary/app requirements and timing windows
• compensation structure and payment timing
• whether consent details can be reviewed before the visit
Documentation tip: request the visit schedule and compensation terms by email when possible.
Recordkeeping (recommended)
Maintain your own record of contacts, dates, visits completed, and payments received. This supports scheduling, payment reconciliation, and tax preparation.
| Item | Example |
|---|---|
| Study/site name | Study XYZ-101 / Site A |
| Coordinator contact | Name, phone, email |
| Visit dates completed | Screening, Visit 1, Follow-up |
| Compensation terms | Per visit / reimbursements / completion bonus |
| Payments received | Date, amount, method |
Sourcing format (how we link)
When we add specific study links on this site, we will use a consistent format so you can verify the basics quickly.
Source
Official registry or primary site page
Study ID
Registry identifier (e.g., NCT number) when available
Location
City/state + site name when listed
Key burden
Visit count, overnights, intensive procedures
Verification
Checklist link + “questions to ask”