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What can I expect?

What you’ll be asked to do as part of different studies can vary widely – from answering a survey to trialling new medicines over a number of months. We have accounts from a number of past research participants that you can read here.

When you match to a study, you’ll be able to view more information about the requirements of the study online on your Volunteer Information Page.

Some examples of what participating in research could involve are:

  • Intervention studies where you may be asked to implement a behavioural or lifestyle change such as to your diet, social life or exercise regime
  • Drug trials
  • Brain imaging scans
  • Cognitive tests
  • Questionnaires about things like sleep, diet, medications, social life, family medical history and lifestyle
  • Surveys about quality of life for older people, caregiver support, health and aged care systems, environmental or town planning changes, and public policy decision making
  • Genetic testing
  • Interviews with your carers or family members
  • Testing new technologies

Some of these tasks may be a one-off; others may be over the course of several months or years. Similarly, some may involve a little amount of time, some may require a considerable investment of time. It is up to you how much time you would like to commit. You can read more about different study methods here.

Remember: Choosing to get involved in research is an important personal decision. You will never have to participate in a study unless you decide it is the right thing for you or the person you helped to register. It is also important to discuss the possible advantages and disadvantages of participation with the researcher or your own doctor, nurse or other health professional.

⟶ Why sign up.

⟶ What is a study?

⟶ Learn about the different types of research