Registry connects researchers, patients

VCU became one of 56 institutions to participate in a national volunteer recruitment registry, allowing people within the Richmond community who want to participate in research studies the ability to connect online with researchers by joining the not-for-profit ResearchMatch.org.

Once registered in the ResearchMatch system, volunteer recruits are alerted to specific studies that may be of interest to them, and they can then make the decision to release their personal information to the particular researcher or institution.

“This nationwide registry will bring together volunteers and researchers, ultimately helping move research forward,” said John Clore, M.D., associate vice president for clinical research and principal investigator for the Center for Clinical and Translational Research at VCU. “This tool helps improve the way biomedical research is conducted and takes us a step closer to finding answers that could make a real difference for the health of many in the Richmond community.”

VCU’s inclusion in the recruitment registry was made possible through the university’s $20 million Clinical and Translational Science Award from the NIH committed to furthering translational science.