Clinical Trials Day 2025: Celebrations and a Groundbreaking Launch

On May 20, the global health community comes together to celebrate Clinical Trials Day, honoring advancements in medical research and the essential role of clinical trials in improving patient outcomes. This date commemorates Scottish naval surgeon James Lind’s pioneering controlled clinical trial aboard the HMS Salisbury in 1747, which identified citrus fruits as a cure for scurvy. His work laid the foundation for modern clinical research practices, paving the way for the medical advancements we benefit from today.  

“Clinical Trials Day is a powerful reminder of the vital role clinical research plays in shaping the health of our communities. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the dedication of researchers while looking toward a future of innovation, discovery, and access to the latest advances in care," said Eva Lustigova, Senior Director of the Tulane Center for Clinical Research.

This year, Tulane School of Medicine is marking the occasion in a big way, with 1) celebratory receptions for both its dedicated research professionals or for those who want to learn more about their work — and 2) the launch of an innovative tool to provide access to the advances of clinical trials.  

"Clinical Trials Day is a powerful reminder of the vital role clinical research plays in shaping the health of our communities."

Eva Lustigova, Senior Director of the Tulane Center for Clinical Research

Honoring Tulane’s Clinical Research Professionals  

Tulane clinical research professionals and supporters are invited to attend two receptions to celebrate the individuals who play vital roles in advancing medical research. These events recognize and appreciate the efforts of investigators, research nurses, coordinators, administrators, and other key players who make groundbreaking research possible.  

• Who: All Tulane clinical research professionals and supporters
• What: A casual reception with refreshments, prizes, and recognition of the Tulane research community
• When: Tuesday, May 20
  • EJGH Lobby: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  • Murphy Lobby: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

These receptions provide a moment to reflect on the valuable contributions of Tulane’s research community, fostering a shared commitment to driving medical innovations that benefit patients worldwide.  

A Game-Changer for Clinical Trials in The Gulf South  

Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, Tulane School of Medicine has officially launched a new Clinical Trials Directory, a centralized platform designed to make clinical research more accessible and visible.  

Connecting Patients, Providers, and Researchers  

This user-friendly directory bridges the gap between patients, providers, and researchers, offering comprehensive information on active clinical trials. With easily navigable listings, the directory details each study's purpose, eligibility criteria, contact information, and sponsoring investigator or department. Whether you're a patient seeking treatment options, a provider referring a patient, or a potential research collaborator, this new tool offers a streamlined way to connect with clinical studies across Tulane.  

“We’re thrilled to offer this resource to enhance visibility, encourage patient enrollment, and simplify access to ongoing research,” said Bethany Jones, Web Designer for Tulane School of Medicine and the creator of the directory.  

Enhancing Collaboration and Visibility  

To ensure maximum participation, departments and research teams are encouraged to list their trials in the directory. This centralized process not only ensures accuracy and up-to-date information but also supports search engine optimization (SEO), thereby improving discoverability for potential participants and collaborators.  

For teams needing support, the Tulane Center for Clinical Research (TCCR) provides services such as trial coordination, protocol development, regulatory compliance guidance, and participant recruitment. Additionally, a webinar is available to guide department administrators and content editors on creating and updating listings in the directory.  

Empowering a Brighter Future  

By uniting advanced tools with the dedication of its research professionals, Tulane is not just commemorating a historic milestone but also stepping into the future of medical research. Clinical Trials Day 2025 is a reminder of how far we’ve come in clinical research and the extraordinary potential that lies ahead.  

For more information on the directory or to get involved in Tulane’s research initiatives, contact the Tulane Center for Clinical Research at tccr@tulane.edu.