Guide to Obtaining Approval to Use ResearchMatch for Subject Recruitment
(Also see the FAQs: https://www.researchmatch.org/partners/index_faq.php)
Part 1:
Feasibility Access will allow you to scan the registry and view aggregate data regarding the registry
population. You will be able to enter specific search criteria to see if ResearchMatch may be a useful
tool for your study.
To use this part of Research Match you need to register in ResearchMatch as an investigator. You do
not need prior approval of the UTSW IRB to use this part of ResearchMatch. Register as a
Researcher https://www.researchmatch.org/researchers/
Part 2:
Recruitment Access will allow you to contact ResearchMatch volunteers that appear to be a good
‘match’ with your study.
To use this part of ResearchMatch requires that you provide information to show that you have an
active IRB-approved study (or IRB-exempt study) in addition to registering. These requirements are
part of the UTSW Site-Specific Instructions you will see as you start to register for Feasibility Access
on the site. You can register for Recruitment Access once you have satisfied the requirements. Your
IRB application or exemption must reference the use of ResearchMatch for subject recruitment. If you
have not done so this is easily addressed by a simple modification submitted to the IRB.
Researchers with additional questions or concerns may contact Ms. Kate Wilkinson (Kathleen
Wilkinson Kathleen.Wilkinson@UTSouthwestern.edu) or Dr. Blair Holbein
(Blair.Holbein@UTSouthwestern.edu) directly. They can provide detailed instructions or you may
follow the following directions.
To obtain Recruitment Access:
1. You must first obtain IRB approval or an exemption. Include the use of ResearchMatch in your
list of recruiting methods. List all persons who will be authorized to recruit for the study using
ResearchMatch as investigators or key personnel on the protocol study team. If you already
have an active protocol you will need to file a modification to your original approval to include
ResearchMatch.
2. Register for “Recruitment Access” through ResearchMatch.org. Follow instructions including
uploading the most current IRB approval letter or exemption (Use a pdf of the approval letter
from the IRB).
3. After registration of basic contact information and details regarding this study, the request will
be forwarded to the UTSW ResearchMatch Institutional Liaison for approval.
4. The ResearchMatch liaison will approve recruitment access.
5. You and your study designees may enter study inclusion/exclusion criteria in the
ResearchMatch Search Builder that will yield a list of potential matches to such criteria.
6. You can send study information to the matches who may reply if they are interested.
If you encounter any technical issues with the registration process, please submit them immediately to
ResearchMatch.