Clinical Research Unit - Frequently Asked Questions
The Clinical Research Unit, better known as the CRU, is a core unit that provides support to conduct research and clinical trials properly. The unit also acts as a liaison between FAU faculty and external collaborators to increase the potential of transdisciplinary research.
The FAU CRU offers a wide range of services from protocol development to study closure. Some of the services offered include study design and feasibility consultation, Institutional Review Board (IRB) submission assistance, federal, state, and institutional regulatory compliance, study coordination, research testing and questionnaire administration according to study protocol and procedures, data and specimen collection, sample processing, storage, packaging, and shipping of biological samples by IATA certified staff, phlebotomy, and medication administration. Please visit our website to obtain the full list of services provided.
The CRU services are offered under a fee-for-service model. The chargeback system is designed to offset the unit's operational costs and its associated support staff to conduct research studies.
The budget depends on the study and the funding source. Fees vary based on the study and corresponding services provided by the CRU. Please contact the CRU to discuss fees for federally funded grants or private (non-pharmaceutical) sponsors. Prices for clinical trials sponsored by the pharmaceutical industry are subject to contract and negotiation terms.
Appointments may be scheduled in the CRU during the hours of operation, Monday-Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. All study appointments are coordinated by the CRU staff. The support for after-hours is possible with proper advanced notice and approval by the CRU Director.
All compliance approvals from the IRB and Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) must be in place before starting a project in the CRU.
CRU services are not available for studies that do not fulfill FAU investigator eligibility and compliance policy. Once the CRU receives an application, the staff reviews the documents to assess the study's feasibility. If the CRU cannot effectively meet budgetary and regulatory needs of the proposed study, a no feasible determination will be released.