FAQ
What are the hours of the facility?
The MIT Clinical Research Center is currently open from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM Monday - Friday.
Is it possible that studies can be done on weekends?
Saturday appoinments may be arranged by the Study Coordinator and the Nursing Manager in advance if required for a particular protocol.
How does the CRC decide which studies to take on?
Scientists and physicians authorized to carry out research protocols using the CRC's facilities include professors, research scientists who work exclusively at MIT, and those with primary appointments in local medical institutions whose research interests overlap extensively with those of MIT investigators. Research protocols must be approved by the MIT Committee on the Use of Humans as Experimental Subjects (COUHES) and the CRC Scientific Advisory Committee before they can be implemented.
What does the CRC gain from performing research studies?
The Clinical Research Center (CRC) is fully funded by a grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Most protocol studies can be performed here for the pure purpose of advancing clinical research free of charge.
How can one volunteer to be in a study?
For those interested in volunteering for a research study the Volunteer Resources link should answer most of your questions. By visiting this link you will be able to find contact information for research studies currently recruiting volunteers.
Is the Clinical Research Center willing to collect blood for a blood only study?
Yes, but the protocol still needs to be approved by MIT COUHES and the Scientific Advisory Committee.
Is the Clinical Research Center willing to perform a dexa-only study?
Yes, but the protocol still needs to be approved by MIT COUHES and the Scientific Advisory Committee.
Would the Clinical Research Center be able to house specialty equipment needed for a Bio-Mechanical protocol?
Absolutely,the clinical research center is well positioned to meet the needs of various specialty equipment necessary to implement biomedical and medical device protocols. Additionally, we also provide a"traveling research nurse" option to assist you in subject assessment and monitoring for those circumstances where it is not feasible to perform study outside of your lab environment.
In a protocol requires a volunteer to fast and be at the Clinical Research Center for multiple hours, would it be possible to provide a complimentary lunch?
Yes, a simple meal could be provided if requested by the protocol when submitted.
Is the Clinical Research Center equipped for pediatric protocols?
The Clinical Research Center does not perform research trials with the pediatirc population at this time. However, on a case by case basis this is a possibility. For information regarding specific patient populations please contact the Nurse Manager.
Can the resources available at the Core Lab be sub-contracted?
Yes for a fee. However you must pass exempt review from our IRB (COUHES) and be approved administratively and by SAC as a core lab only protocol.
Is there parking at the Clinical Research Center?
Parking at MIT is very limited. It is highly advised that the MBTA be used whenever possible. Our building is located one block from the Kendall/MIT Redline station.