About DEPRU Service Center
The Duke Early Phase Research Unit is a state-of-the-art, 30-bed research unit that provides the clinical infrastructure investigators need to design, initiate, conduct, and report early-phase translational studies at Duke Health. Our multidisciplinary team helps translate basic research discoveries into patient-focused therapies while advancing knowledge of human health and disease.
Still need help? Email ResearchAtPickett_Request@dm.duke.edu
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Why Partner With Us
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Advanced infrastructure. Confinement space for up to 30 participants, six exam rooms, dedicated volunteer check-in/discharge areas, and a fully equipped processing laboratory.
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Full hospital integration. Immediate access to Duke University Hospital emergency response, IV and telemetry services, investigational pharmacy support, and DUHS CAP-accredited clinical laboratories.
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24/7 safety & security. Controlled-access locks, on-site Duke Security personnel, locked elevators, and continuous medical coverage protect both study teams and participants.
Core Services
| Service | What's Included |
|---|---|
| Nursing Services | DUHS-credentialed nurses administer investigational products, perform protocol-specified procedures, and document all study activities per the approved study plan. |
| Project Management | Budget development, study start-up coordination, portfolio oversight for PIs, progress reporting, and support for grants or manuscripts. |
| Provider Services | Physical exams, adverse-event assessments, dosing oversight, and other medically delegated tasks. |
| Laboratory Services | On-site specimen processing & shipping, short-term storage (–20 °C/–80 °C), and CLIA-waived point-of-care testing (e.g. pregnancy tests). |
Duke Early Phase Research Unit Facility
Location
40 Duke Medicine Circle, Clinic 3N, Red Zone, Durham NC 27710 (Duke Clinic, connected to Duke Medicine Pavilion & Duke Cancer Center).
Overview:
Located within the Duke South Clinic, DEPRU is a 30-bed inpatient and outpatient research unit designed for early phase and translational research studies. The unit is fully integrated with Duke Health services and offers high-security infrastructure, on-site specimen processing, and advanced monitoring equipment.
Additional DEPRU Facility Information
Facility Features:
- 30 participant beds with private rooms
- 6 exam rooms for outpatient procedures
- High-speed internet & Apple TV in each room
- Omnicell medication management and telemetry system
- 24/7 Duke Security and controlled badge access
On-Site Support Services:
- Emergency medical response via DUH Team 115
- Hospital-based IV access team
- Investigational pharmacy for product dispensing
- Embedded lab for specimen processing and storage (-80°C, -20°C)
Contact Us
General Inquiries & Estimates - ResearchAtPickett_Request@dm.duke.edu