Learn more and explore available clinical research trials at renown.org/ClinicalTrials
As Nevada’s first not-for-profit academic health system, Renown Health is committed to transforming lives, strengthening communities, and providing comprehensive care to individuals across Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. In partnership with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Renown Health pursues its mission through exceptional patient care, comprehensive education and training, and innovative research, all aimed at creating a healthier future for Nevada.
Advancing clinical research is central to that mission, improving patient outcomes, expanding treatment options, and bringing the latest medical breakthroughs to northern Nevada. As part of Renown’s efforts to expand access to both essential services and advanced treatment options, a new, comprehensive Clinical Trials hub on renown.org, has created a central place for patients, physicians and advanced practice providers to explore active studies and participation in the latest innovations in care.
The new online platform reflects significant growth and investment in Renown’s clinical research program. Renown now offers more than 140 active clinical trials, expanding from just 35 trials in 2021, with approximately 350 research participants enrolled in 2025. As Nevada’s only AAHRPP-accredited health system, Renown meets the highest national standards for research quality, safety and patient protections, reinforcing its commitment to trust, transparency and people-first care.
“Clinical trials at Renown span a wide range of specialties, including oncology, pulmonology, cardiology, neurology, endocrinology, rheumatology, surgery, women’s health, and multi-specialty care,” said Bill Plauth, MD, MMM, CPE, Chief Medical Officer, Renown Health and Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. “The breadth of clinical research opportunities ensures that more patients in northern Nevada have access to innovative treatment options without needing to travel outside the region.”
Why Clinical Trials Matter
Clinical trials are a cornerstone of medicine, helping transform today’s discoveries into tomorrow’s standard of care. They provide patients with access to new treatments, therapies and technologies that are not yet widely available, often offering additional options when traditional treatments may be limited or no longer effective.
“Clinical trials are the foundation of medical progress, and their success depends on the dedication of our researchers, scientists, and laboratory teams here at UNR Med, said Paul J. Hauptman, M.D., Dean, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine and Chief Academic Officer for Renown Health. Their collaborative work ensures that discoveries made in the lab are translated into safe, effective treatments for patients. By fostering a strong culture of research and innovation, we are not only advancing science but also improving the health of our communities and beyond.”
Beyond individual patient benefits, clinical trials play a critical role in advancing medical knowledge. Through carefully designed studies, researchers can better understand diseases, evaluate the safety and effectiveness of new treatments, and refine existing approaches to care. This work leads to earlier diagnoses, more targeted therapies, and improved outcomes for patients and communities over time.
“Participation in clinical research not only supports scientific discovery; it also gives patients additional options and hope,” said Kristen Gurnea, MPH, Director of Clinical Research and Genomics, Renown Health. “Our goal is to make it as easy as possible for patients and providers to find and participate in trials that may be a good fit. We are focused on educating, empowering and reassuring our community throughout the process, ensuring patients feel informed and supported every step of the way.”
Renown’s growing research program is supported by continued investments in infrastructure and workforce development. In collaboration with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Renown has developed dedicated research spaces to centralize study coordination and enhance the participant’s experience. The program includes a network of more than 50 investigators, reflecting a diverse and expanding clinical research community. In addition, UNR Med’s partnership with the University of Utah Clinical and Translational Science Institute strengthens investigator training and research support across the region.
“Our goal with the new clinical trials website was to make participation more accessible, transparent, and patient-friendly,” said Nardeep Singh, MBA, Manager of Marketing Technology, Renown Health. “By combining intuitive design with robust data integration, we’ve created a platform that not only supports our research teams but also empowers patients to easily find and engage with trials that are right for them.”
What You’ll Find on Renown.org
The enhanced clinical trials section on renown.org provides:
A searchable directory of active clinical trials across a range of specialties and conditions;
Clear descriptions of each study, including eligibility criteria and study goals;
Information about Renown’s research programs and areas of focus;
Resources to help patients and families understand what to expect when participating in a clinical trial.
How to Learn More or Enroll
Patients, families and providers can explore available trials on renown.org. Individuals interested in participating can review study details and connect with research teams for next steps.
About Renown Health
As the state’s first not-for-profit academic health system, Renown Health is dedicated to transforming lives, strengthening communities, and providing care for all people across Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Together with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Renown Health improves health and lives through exceptional care, comprehensive education and training, and innovative research to ensure a healthier future for Nevada. To join the team, visit renown.org/careers.
