Research & Innovation

Clinical Trials

For over 25 years, Utah Cancer Specialists has been advancing cancer care through clinical research — managing 50+ active trials and offering Utah’s only community-based early-phase program.

Explore START Trials arrow_forward View UCS Late-Phase Trials arrow_forward

Two research programs

Investigational therapies and standard-of-care advances, side by side.

From cutting-edge first-in-human Phase I studies to large-scale Phase II and III trials, our research teams help you understand what’s available and whether a trial fits your situation.

science Phase I

START Mountain Region

Early-Phase Trials

Established in 2020, the START Mountain Region center is Utah’s only dedicated community-based early-phase clinical trial site — part of the world’s largest Phase I medical oncology research program.

Led by Dr. Justin Call, the program expands options for patients who have exhausted standard treatments and wish to explore emerging investigational therapies, right here in Utah.

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Established 2020

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Led by Dr. Justin Call

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Part of the world’s largest Phase I medical oncology research program

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phone 801.907.4750 mail [email protected]

monitoring Phase II–III

UCS Clinical Research

Late-Phase Trials

Our clinical research program offers Phase II and Phase III trials focused on bringing the latest therapeutic advancements to patients across the Intermountain West — trials that help establish new standards of care.

With trials spanning all cancer types, our research team can help determine whether a clinical trial might be right for you based on your diagnosis, treatment history, and molecular profile.

What participation actually looks like.

Trials are voluntary at every step — here’s how a typical journey unfolds, from first conversation through follow-up care.

Step 01

Consultation

Talk with your oncologist about whether a trial fits your diagnosis, treatment history, and goals.

Step 02

Screening

Eligibility review based on labs, imaging, and your molecular profile to match you with the right trial.

Step 03

Enrollment

Informed consent, baseline tests, and a clear study schedule before any treatment begins.

Step 04

Treatment & Follow-up

Receive the trial therapy with close monitoring and continued support from your full care team.

Common questions

What patients ask most.

If you don’t see your question here, our research team is happy to answer it directly — reach out to either program above.

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a carefully designed research study that tests new treatments in patients. All trials are reviewed and approved by an Institutional Review Board (IRB) to ensure patient safety, and participation is always voluntary.

Will I receive a placebo?

Most cancer clinical trials do not use placebos alone. When a control arm is included, participants always receive at least the current standard of care in addition to any investigational agent.

Are there costs to participate?

Investigational drugs and study-related tests are typically provided at no cost. Standard-of-care costs (like routine blood work) are generally billed to your insurance as they normally would be.

How do I find out if I’m eligible?

Ask your oncologist about trial options at your next visit, or contact our research team directly. We’ll review your diagnosis, treatment history, and molecular profile to identify suitable trials.

Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?

Yes. Participation is entirely voluntary. You may withdraw from a clinical trial at any time, for any reason, without affecting your ongoing care at Utah Cancer Specialists.