Type 2 Diabetes Clinical Trials in Gilbert, AZ
Mission Research Institute in Gilbert, Arizona runs clinical trials for adults with type 2 diabetes. Our studies test new ways to lower blood sugar, support weight loss and protect the heart and kidneys, often for people whose numbers are still above target on their current medicine.
Medically reviewed by Sunildat Maheshwari, MD —
- No costStudy care, labs and medication
- No insurance needed
- Location690 E. Warner Road, Suite 134, Gilbert, Arizona
Why take part in a diabetes study?
Type 2 diabetes affects millions of Americans, and many people still struggle to reach their blood sugar goals even when they take their medication every day. Clinical trials are how new treatments are tested before they become available to everyone.
Taking part gives you closely monitored diabetes care, regular lab work and a chance to help shape future treatment for your family and community.

- Closely monitored diabetes care
- Regular lab work
- A chance to help shape future treatment for your family and community
Who may qualify
Each study has its own requirements, but most of our diabetes studies are for people who:
- Are 18 years of age or older
- Have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes
- Have an A1c in a set range. Many studies look for an A1c between about 7% and 10.5%. A1c is the blood test that shows your average blood sugar over the past 2–3 months.
- Are taking diabetes medication such as metformin or insulin, or have been newly diagnosed, depending on the study
Don't know your latest A1c? Your own doctor can tell you, or it is checked during a study's screening visit if you are invited to one. Some studies also look at weight, heart health or kidney function, so don't rule yourself out before you call.
Find out which diabetes studies you qualify for
Fill out the short form or call 480-716-9118. A Mission Research Institute team member will contact you within 1–2 business days.
Call 480-716-9118Types of diabetes research we conduct
New medications to lower blood sugar
Including pills and injectable treatments.
Treatments for diabetes and weight
For people managing both.
Heart and kidney health studies
These look at how treatments protect organs affected by diabetes.
What to expect
- 1
Pre-screening call
About 15 minutes. A coordinator asks about your diagnosis, medications and recent A1c, and tells you which diabetes studies could fit.
- 2
Screening visit
We explain the study, answer your questions and go over the consent form with you. The screening visit may include bloodwork, such as an A1c, a fasting blood sugar test and kidney function tests, or other diagnostic screenings needed to confirm eligibility.
- 3
Study visits
Usually every few weeks at first, then about monthly, for 1–2 hours. Expect blood sugar checks, blood draws and a review of how you are feeling.
- 4
Follow-up
A final visit to check your blood sugar and overall health after the study medicine ends.
Most diabetes studies last several months to a year or more. You get the exact schedule before you agree to join.
What's covered
- Study medication, study-related lab work and exams at no cost
- No health insurance needed
- Compensation for your time and travel, which varies by study
- Every study is approved by an Institutional Review Board (IRB), an independent committee that protects the rights and safety of research participants

Your study team
Our diabetes studies are led by Sunildat Maheshwari, MD, Principal Investigator and family medicine physician, who has managed diabetes care for East Valley patients at Gilbert Center for Family Medicine since 2010.
Meet Dr. Sunny →Do I have to stop my current diabetes medication?
Usually not. Most participants keep taking their current medication. The study doctor reviews everything you take and tells you about any changes before you start.
Will I still need to check my blood sugar at home?
Many studies ask you to keep checking your blood sugar, and some provide a meter or supplies. The study team explains exactly what to track.
Does it matter if I take insulin?
It depends on the study. Some include people on insulin and some do not. Tell the coordinator on your pre-screening call so they can check.
Do I need health insurance to join a diabetes study?
No. Study-related care, lab work and medication are provided at no cost, whether or not you have insurance.
Could I get a placebo instead of the study medicine?
In some diabetes studies, yes. Most participants keep their regular diabetes medicine, so you are not left untreated. The study team tells you before you agree to join.
Learn more
New to research studies? Read our guides:
Type 2 Diabetes Clinical Trials: What Patients in Arizona Need to Know Prediabetes: The Window You Do Not Want to MissReady to find out which diabetes studies you qualify for?
Fill out the short form or call 480-716-9118. A Mission Research Institute team member will contact you within 1–2 business days.
Our Gilbert site serves adults across the East Valley, including Mesa, Chandler, Queen Creek and Tempe.
