Introduction to Clinical Research

Welcome to the Oklahoma Shared Clinical & Translational Resources’ Clinical Research Unit at the University of Oklahoma Health Campus (OUHC)! Our ultimate goal is to improve health and quality of life of Oklahomans.

What is Clinical Research?

 Clinical research explores health and disease by studying people directly using new medical devices, diagnostic tools, behavioral treatments, and medications. It focuses on furthering our knowledge of diseases, and is essential for developing new ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat various conditions. Translational research bridges the gap between lab discoveries and real-world medical applications.

These studies are crucial for the future of healthcare in Oklahoma, often relying on the participation of volunteers like you, whether you’re healthy or facing a diagnosed medical condition. Even if these concepts are new to you, our team can provide you the resources on what to expect and help you get involved. Getting involved in clinical research studies is accessible and impactful. 

Learn more about getting involved in clinical research!

How is Our Clinical Research Supported?

Our ongoing clinical studies are funded by multiple agencies, including the National Institutes of Health (NIH), American Heart Association (AHA), Presbyterian Health Foundation, Oklahoma Center for Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST), Oklahoma Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute (OCTSI), and by the University of Oklahoma Health Campus (OUHC). 

Our Partners

Our clinical studies span across all the campuses and centers of the University of Oklahoma, including OU-Norman, OU-Tulsa, OU Health Campus, Stephenson Cancer Center, Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, Center for Geroscience and Health Brain Aging, Oklahoma Primary Healthcare Improvement Cooperative. Our research unit also partners with prominent tribal nations and organizations throughout Oklahoma such as the Southern Plains Tribal Board, Chickasaw Nation, Cherokee Nation, Choctaw Nation, Osage Nation, Absentee Shawnee Tribe, and the Oklahoma City Indian Clinic.

Our projects involve a number of outstanding researchers and physicians from across the nation, not just in Oklahoma!

Learn more about our partners!

How We Advance Research

The OSCTR Clinical Science Unit is committed to advancing collaborative, interdisciplinary research that accelerates the translation of scientific discovery into improved health outcomes for Oklahoma and beyond. Rooted in a strong network of investigators, clinicians, and trainees, we foster innovation through robust training programs, methodological expertise, and shared clinical and research resources that support studies from design to implementation. By promoting cross-institutional partnerships, professional development, and data-driven approaches, we empower researchers at every stage to address complex health challenges, strengthen community-engaged research, and extend the impact of locally driven innovation to regional, national, and global health.