About Volunteering

At PMRI, we try to make volunteering as pleasant an experience as possible. Our skilled team of clinical research professionals, including physicians, registered nurses and technicians, are on site during each study to ensure that your safety and comfort are attended to.

The studies conducted at PMRI vary in length, but are generally composed of two overnight stays in our clinic, on two or more occasions. Meals, sleeping quarters, bedding and shower facilities are provided. Activities such as movies, games and internet access are also available.

In a typical study, you are given a single dose of a drug and blood is taken at fixed time points. Some studies have "return draws", where you would be required to return to the clinic after check-out for a blood draw. These return visits are usually brief, and are scheduled in advance.

In addition to the blood samples, ECGs (electrocardiogram) may be conducted and vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, heart rate) measured at regular intervals, or as determined by one of our physicians. All volunteers are required to have exit tests and see the physician prior to leaving the clinic after a study to confirm their health status.

Volunteers are compensated at the end of the study. Compensation is determined taking into account the amount of time volunteered and compliance with the study requirements.

The first step to becoming a volunteer is completing the medical Recruiting & Screening process. This is done to make sure you qualify as a "healthy volunteer".

During the screening, you will be asked to give blood and urine samples, have an ECG and have your vital signs taken. You must also pass a drug test. The blood samples collected will be tested for HIV, hepatitis, and other standard wellness tests. At this time, you will also receive an information package with all the details about the drug that will be administered. You must bring a government issued photo ID and proof of current health coverage each time you visit our Clinic.

If you have any questions, please take a look at the Frequently Asked Questions section or contact our Recruiting & Screening team by telephone or email.