CommonSpirit Health Research Institute

The CommonSpirit Health Research Institute (CSHRI) offers participants across 92 care sites in the United States, with access to cancer, neurology and cardiology clinical research studies. Research participants may benefit from advanced therapies and newer treatments that are not yet available to the public. They are supported throughout the course of the study by a team of dedicated and passionate medical professionals that include physicians, nurses, navigators and research staff.

Patient Hugged
Jump to

About us

Building on a tradition of excellence that dates back more than one hundred years, the CommonSpirit Health Research Institute (CSHRI) is focused on connecting hospitals, participants and physicians with the latest in medical advances, technology, treatment and procedures. 

Led by a strong diverse team of experienced, mission driven health care leaders, the CSHRI provides start-to-finish clinical research services, resources and clinical trials oversight across the enterprise. The research institute sponsors over 92 care sites and more than 650 clinical trials in the United States, resulting in approximately 4,000 annual participants and increased access to cancer research through the NCI Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP).

about us

Mission-driven leadership

Vani Nilakantan, PhD

Dr. Vani Nilakantan is the System Vice President of the CommonSpirit Research Institute and has responsibility for research programs across the enterprise. 

Vani Nilakantan, PhD

The participant’s clinical trial journey

 
  1. Recruitment: Potential research participants are identified and invited based on eligibility criteria to ensure a match with study requirements.

  2. Authentication: Verifying identity and eligibility for participation. 


  3. Informed consent: Research participants sign consent forms, acknowledging their understanding and agreement to the terms of the study. 


  4. Study onboarding: Getting familiarized with the study protocol, procedures, and expectations. 

  5. Data collection: Providing necessary information and undergoing assessments as per the study requirements.


  6. Engagement: Staying involved and responsive throughout the study duration. 

  7. Study completion: Finishing all study activities and assessments, marking the end of participation in the trial.
participant journey

Ways to give


The Research Excellence Equity Fund (REEF) supports the intersectionality of research and health equity through initiatives like the Clinical Research Innovation Grant Program, which funds innovative, participant-centered research with a health equity focus, and strategies to enhance diversity in clinical trial participation. It also promotes diversity in the research workforce by supporting diverse medical students, residents, and fellows, and provides start-up funds for research to increase the recruitment of physicians of color.

Donate now