Are you thinking about participating in research? Here’s what you should know!

  • Research is a study to answer a particular question. Research seeks to contribute to knowledge on a wide variety of topics and conditions.
  • Taking part in research is voluntary. You get to decide whether you want to participate.
  • Research might not benefit you personally. Some people decide to participate because they feel strongly about the importance of research and want to help advance knowledge.
  • The research team can help answer questions about what participating in a particular study would entail, what the risks and benefits are, and what would happen with the information you provide them. Typically, study teams will provide you with a written copy of information about the study.  Here are some questions you might ask about a research study to help decide if volunteering is right for you.
  • For more information about volunteering for research, check out the Office for Human Research Protections’ short informational videos made specifically for potential research volunteers.

Research Opportunities

Below are some ways to find out about research opportunities:

Questions or Concerns about Human Participants Research

The following individuals/offices can assist you with questions or concerns regarding human participants research at UW-Madison:

  • For questions about a particular study, contact the research staff for the study you are participating in or are considering participating in (see recruitment materials or consent form for contact information)
  • For complaints or concerns, contact the UW-Madison Anonymous Human Research Protection Hotline: 608-890-1273 or toll free at 833-652-2506
  • For general questions about human research that are not better suited for a specific study team, contact the UW-Madison Human Research Protection Inbox: hrpp@research.wisc.edu