Participate in Research

Lupus is a complex, debilitating disease. No two people with lupus experience it the same way, and it can take months - or even years - to diagnose and find the right combination of treatment options.

Every breakthrough in the understanding of lupus - its causes, its effects on the body, the development of new drugs and treatments - is based on research. And lupus research only moves forward when the voices of people with lupus are heard.

The idea of participating in research may seem difficult or even scary, but there are many different ways to help advance lupus research. Check out the options below to learn more about joining a patient-powered registry like RAY® (Research Accelerated by You), enrolling in clinical trials for new lupus treatments, and other ways to get involved.

Participate in clinical trials

See the trials that we spotlight and find ways to search for all the trials available to you.

Find clinical trials

Understand clinical trials

Our list of frequently asked questions can answer everything that's on your mind about your role in clinical trials.

Read our FAQ

Enroll in a lupus registry

Join our lupus data platform, RAY, where people with lupus and caregivers provide information about their lupus experience.

Join RAY: Research Accelerated by You

Find other research opportunities

There are opportunities for you to be involved in smaller studies led by individual researchers, called Investigator-Initiated Studies. 

Find out about Investigator-Initiated Studies

Have questions?

Choosing to participate in a clinical trial or study is an important personal decision - talk with your doctor and loved ones about deciding to join a study. The Lupus Foundation of America's health education specialists are also available to answer non-medical questions and provide caring support to people with lupus, their families and care partners.