This book is designed to provide the "student" interested in clinical research, a foundation upon which to build more advanced study. The book focuses on clinical trials, in contrast to the many excellent textbooks that address epidemiological research. With the recent interest in patient oriented research, this book should provide a knowledge base that is not necessarily covered in other texts. Chapters discussing the FDA's role in clinical research, Data Safety and Monitoring Boards, Postmarketing studies, the use of placebo controls, and a focus on clinical trials illustrates this point. In addition, new types of clinical research are evolving, and as such, this book discusses genetic, pharmacoepidemiologic, and implementation research. Finally, chapters on tips on how to write a grant, the mentoring process, and how to present one's research results are unique to this book. Book jacket.