How to Be Part of a Paid Research Study

If you’re out of work, looking to make some extra money or looking for beneficial treatment for a medical or psychological problem, you may be thinking of participating in a research study. While many people think of medical clinical trials and studies right away, there are other types of research studies as well, often paying participants for their opinions on products, foods or services. Research studies can be found, but you’ll need to put in some effort to find a study you can participate in, as most are limited to a fairly narrow group of participants.

GPGP

• GPGP.net is an online resource that has been set up to help people between the ages of 18 and 85, who want to volunteer, locate paid research studies in the United States, U.K., Canada and Europe. GPGP.net provides resources on a variety of different research study types, including both medical and psychological studies. Use the GPGP.net directory of research studies to see what is available in your area and learn more about specific research studies in which you may be able to participate.

Local Teaching and Research Hospitals

• If you live in or near a city with a teaching or research hospital, it’s likely that they perform a variety of paid research studies. Contact your local teaching or research hospital to inquire about which studies are available and how you can apply to participate. If you’re only interested in participating in certain research studies, like those for volunteers with a certain health problem, for example, contact the appropriate department about more specific research studies.

Private Research Companies

• Register with a private research company like FG Global or Scarborough Research to be considered for a variety of research studies, including product and medical research. When registering with these companies, you’ll need to fill out a questionnaire that provides basic information to the company to see which research studies you may qualify for. If you fit the criteria for a research study, the company will contact you with more information about where and when the study will be conducted, as well as payment information so you can decide if you want to participate. Private research groups keep a database of participants, and may contact you at any time for future studies. Some companies even have online research studies that you can participate in from your home.

Classified Advertisements

• Classified advertisements, both online and in newspapers can be an excellent resource for finding paid research studies. Many hospitals and private companies advertise research studies in classified ads, generally geared toward a certain group of potential participants. Check local daily newspapers and online sources regularly to find a research study that is appropriate for you. If you’re unsure of the validity of a research study, don’t respond to the advertisement.