Meridian Clinical Research in Omaha, NE, has performed research studies for H1N1 influenza (flu), herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), West Nile virus, Ebola virus, and many other diseases. These studies are crucial, especially for developing vaccines to protect children and elderly patients.
Meridian is now accepting volunteers for the following vaccine studies in Omaha:
- Clostridium Difficile (C. Diff) | Age 60 and Up
- Flu Vaccine (Influenza) | Age 65 to 85 or 6 months to 4 Years)
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) | Age 60 to 85 or 1 to 2 Years
- Pneumococcal Vaccine (Pneumonia)
- Many more: New studies are opening soon.
Meridian can notify you when current or upcoming studies may be right for you. Simply complete the form on this page. After you submit your information, a Meridian enrollment specialist will call you to talk about study opportunities. There is no obligation to join — you can decide if the study is right for you.
Meridian enrollment specialists are also available by phone at (402) 934-7563. (Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. (CT), Saturday 9 a.m. to Noon (CT))
Submit Your Information
Why Join a Vaccine Study?
Without clinical research studies, it would be impossible to develop new treatments and cures. This is also true for vaccines, which can help prevent and stop the spread of severe diseases.
Many people find joining a clinical study to be a rewarding experience. The benefits go well beyond helping people live longer, healthier lives.
- Study-related medical exams and research treatments
- Compensation may be available for some studies
- No insurance is required to join
Joining a Vaccine Study
Your doctor may tell you about a vaccine study, or you may find one by searching online. After you apply for a study, you will be asked some questions (likely over the phone) to determine if the study is right for you. If you pass the phone screening, you may visit a clinic for a physical screening.
Each study is different, but the informed consent process ensures you understand what will happen. You’ll learn about the product being studied, your role in the trial, potential side effects, and the visits required.
After you fully understand your role in the study, you may sign an informed consent form. You may withdraw your consent at any time.
You will receive a physical exam that will vary depending on the study. As an added benefit, you may also get specific exams or tests (results will be shared with you).
When you are given an investigational treatment, clinical staff will closely monitor your health. You may undergo additional tests to assess the product’s effect.
Some studies require several visits to the clinic. You may be eligible to receive payment or reimbursement for your time and travel for each visit. Any required follow-up visits would be detailed in the informed consent process so you’re never surprised by what a study entails.
Contact
Meridian Clinical Research
3319 N 107th St
Omaha, NE 68134
Phone: (402) 934-7563
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. (CT), Saturday 9 a.m. to Noon (CT).
Meet the Physician

Brandon J. Essink, MD
Dr. Brandon Essink has served as principal investigator at Meridian Clinical Research in Omaha since 2003. He earned his BS from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, NE, and attended medical school at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, in Omaha, NE, graduating in 2001. Dr. Essink completed his residency in Family Practice at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in 2003 and a Family Practice Procedural Fellowship in 2004. He is board certified in Family Practice since 2003 and has practiced Family Medicine since 2004.
About Meridian Clinical Research
Founded in 1999, Meridian studies the safety and effectiveness of new medicines, devices, and treatments. Its mission is to enrich lives by providing quality, compassionate care to patients and unparalleled clinical research services.
Clinical studies help scientists develop life-changing medicines, but it starts with you — participation makes it all possible. For almost 20 years, thousands of patients have trusted Meridian because of our focus on creating a positive patient experience.