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Getting Started in Multi-Site Research

Setting up and getting approval for a multi-site study is different from doing so for a study conducted solely at the NIH and reviewed by the NIH IRB. However, once initiated, this approach can streamline the IRB review process for all parties involved.

Multi-Site Research, or Cooperative Research, involves conducting a study across multiple institutions. This approach tests drugs, devices, and treatments for safety and effectiveness; facilitates the study of specific conditions and disease spread; and enables the involvement of varied participant populations in different settings.

Key features of Multi-Site Research

Coordination and Collaboration: Researchers ensure a consistent study protocol (the research plan and procedures), data collection methods, and communication strategies across all sites.

Data Management: Robust systems are implemented for data collection, storage, and analysis, maintaining data integrity and security across multiple sites.

Regulatory Compliance: Each site adheres to the same regulatory requirements, including obtaining ethical approvals, maintaining privacy and confidentiality, and following the approved research plan.

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