Participant Testimonials

At NIAID, the relationship between scientists, clinicians, and volunteers from the community is considered a partnership and collaboration. The people who volunteer to participate in clinical trials are extraordinary individuals who graciously volunteer their time and work closely with us to find solutions for global health challenges. Below are a few of the volunteers who have participated in NIAID research studies.

Kymone Freeman

"I’ve realized that our only hope of truly curbing this pandemic is the discovery of a vaccine. This is why I fight."

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Lara R. Miller

I first became involved with the clinical aspects of NIH as a routine blood and platelet donor. There is no better feeling than knowing that my donation can help save someone's life. Now that I am part of a [clinical] study, it enhances that altruistic feeling even more, knowing that my participation may someday save millions of lives.

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Matt Rose

The study team really does have a sense of caring about the individual in the study and - as much as they are driven to do the research - they also have a healthy and definite respect and even admiration for their volunteers. It is this balance that makes me as a participant feel truly connected to the study and the work that is being done for the greater good.

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Peter Hubbard

Participating in a VRC clinical trial was really great, with lots of smiling faces to welcome us each time we came in for a visit. You really cannot ask for nicer or more dedicated and knowledgeable staff than those at the VRC, and they appreciate all of their volunteers. Give it a shot and be a part of something truly important!

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Sara Jones

Through scientific research, we gain the ability to prevent or cure disease. I am proud of my part in helping to create these potentially life-saving vaccines. I am grateful that I am able to provide a snug, safe little world for my son, and when he learns of these diseases, I will tell him how his mommy took action to stop them.

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Scott Simpson

Each time I visited the VRC clinic, I felt that the entire team was on the same page as I was: being a part of what could one day bring us to a preventive HIV vaccine. I think the VRC is home to some of the most brilliant minds on the planet working on this issue. To get to know and contribute to their work made me feel like I was a part of history in the making.

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Socrates Trujillo

I think there is still a need for greater awareness, understanding, and education about HIV vaccine research. I think a vaccine is the only solution to this crisis that affects us all. I have now participated in a total of four Vaccine Research Center studies, and I am a very happy 39-year-old.

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Tony Lee

The best part of participating in the trial was seeing the staff during each visit: they were so upbeat, kind, and thankful. I felt as though I was part of a team that would change the world—and I know it will. I am so glad I had the opportunity to volunteer at the VRC, and I look forward to helping again whenever possible.

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Zenovia Wright

I connected with the Vaccine Research Center (VRC) to promote HIV vaccine research. Ultimately, I want to do all I can to raise awareness in the community about HIV/AIDS and help those infected with the virus get the support they need. Together, we can stop the spread of this devastating disease.

Photo of Zenovia Wright

Search for a Clinical Trial

Healthy Volunteers: Healthy volunteers are people with no known significant health problems. See a list of all trials that are seeking healthy volunteers.

More Trials: Not all NIAID clinical trials are listed here. You may find more trials at ClinicalTrials.gov