Clinical Research & Advocacy
Greater understanding begins when science and lived experience come together.
Clinical research plays an important role in improving treatments, advancing scientific understanding, and shaping the future of epilepsy care. Participation in research studies allows individuals living with epilepsy to contribute their experiences and help researchers develop better therapies for future generations. Auraclipse shares research opportunities with the community when organizations and research teams are seeking participants for epilepsy-related studies. Monica also serves as a Clinical Research Ambassador with the Epilepsy Foundation, helping amplify the patient voice and increase awareness about the importance of participation in epilepsy research.
Why Clinical Research Matters
Clinical research helps scientists and medical professionals develop new medications, therapies, and approaches that improve the lives of individuals living with epilepsy. Participation in research studies allows people to contribute to discoveries that may benefit future generations.
By sharing information about research opportunities and helping individuals understand the process, Auraclipse aims to make clinical research feel more accessible and less intimidating.
Representation in Research
Representation in clinical research is essential. Different communities may experience epilepsy differently, and responses to treatments can vary across populations.
Auraclipse is especially committed to helping raise awareness about research participation within Latino and underrepresented communities, where awareness of clinical trial opportunities may be lower. Increasing participation helps researchers develop better understanding and more effective treatments for everyone.
Bridging Research & Lived Experience
Through advocacy and collaboration, Auraclipse helps amplify the lived experiences of individuals with epilepsy. By sharing perspectives from the community, this initiative helps researchers, healthcare professionals, and organizations better understand the real-world impact of epilepsy. Monica is passionate about amplifying the patient voice and the voice of the underrepresented communities to increase awareness about the importance of participation in epilepsy research.
Getting Involved in Research
Individuals interested in learning more about epilepsy research opportunities are encouraged to explore resources and speak with healthcare professionals about clinical studies that may be available.
Participation in research is always voluntary and should be considered carefully with the guidance of medical professionals.
How to become an Epilepsy Foundation Research Ambassador
Each year, 30 ambassadors are selected and given access to The Epilepsy Foundation's online Clinical Research 101 series, a seven-part video curriculum covering the foundations of research, clinical trials, and patient engagement. The program then culminates in a full-day, immersive, in-person Ambassador Bootcamp. Bootcamp equips participants with a comprehensive understanding of how epilepsy treatments are developed and approved—from preclinical testing and clinical trials to FDA review and device innovation. This experience provides insight into how new therapies are developed and ensures that people with epilepsy have a meaningful voice in shaping clinical research. You must apply and be nominated.