Pediatric Voices in Research: Why Kids Matter in Clinical Studies with Zachariah Martinez

In this inspiring episode of Voices of Inclusive Research, Dr. Ren Jones is joined by Zachariah Martinez, the first young guest to ever appear on the podcast. Zachariah shares his personal experience participating in pediatric clinical studies and explains how getting involved not only benefited science but also improved his mood, routines, and overall well-being.Dr. Ren and Zachariah discuss what it’s really like for kids inside clinical studies: the procedures, the compensation, the support from research staff, and the importance of feeling safe and heard. They highlight why pediatric participation is essential for advancing science and ensuring treatments are safe and effective for younger populations.Zachariah also speaks directly to other kids who may be curious about research, offering encouragement, honesty about the process, and advice for researchers on how to better support young participants from all backgrounds.🎧 Tune in for a rare conversation that elevates youth voices in research and reminds us why representation, from childhood onward, matters for the future of science.Must-Hear Insights and Key MomentsWhy Pediatric Research Matters: Children help answer critical scientific questions that can’t be solved through adult studies alone.Real Benefits of Participation: From compensation to personal growth, Zach shares how being in a study improved his routine and happiness.Safety & Comfort: The importance of kind, attentive research staff—especially when procedures involve needles or overnight stays.Representation from a Young Voice: Zach highlights why kids need to feel respected, listened to, and supported throughout the research process.Advice for Future Studies: Simple, powerful suggestions from a participant’s perspective on improving pediatric research experiences.About Zachariah Zachariah Martinez is a 13-year-old from Southern California who loves science, health, and helping others. At just 11 years old, he participated in the NIH-funded MoTrPAC study at UC Irvine.Follow Dr. Ren:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInWe Want to Hear Your Voice!Your insights on how inclusive research impacts your life and community are invaluable. Share your experiences and thoughts on how we can bridge the gap between research and real-world needs. Your stories drive our mission and inspire the future of inclusive research!