AI Clinical Trial Site Selection

Clinical trial site selection asks whether an investigator and site can conduct a particular study safely and reliably. AI can combine feasibility questionnaires, prior performance, geographic data, patient populations, staffing, and facility information to prioritize locations for review. FDA’s E6(R3) Good Clinical Practice guidance says site selection should confirm investigator and site-team qualifications, resources, and facilities appropriate for the trial. A model score alone cannot establish that a site is suitable. Historical recruitment data can reflect which communities were previously approached, not only whether potential participants exist. A ranking model may favor familiar high-volume centers, undercount sites serving rural or underserved populations, or rely on stale estimates. Sponsors should check the protocol’s inclusion criteria, local standard of care, language access, laboratory capacity, and competing studies. Engage investigators directly and verify that the site can protect participants and maintain reliable records. Use AI as a feasibility aid, document the evidence behind recommendations, and allow qualified teams to challenge the ranking. Assess whether the final network covers the population needed for the research question. Site selection is not a prediction contest; trial quality depends on oversight, informed consent, protocol adherence, and participant safety. Reassess feasibility when protocol or site conditions change. The sponsor should consider whether the site can support informed consent in appropriate languages and maintain secure source records. Confirm plans for monitoring, participant reimbursement, and coordination with local care providers where relevant.