About Us

Advancing Clinical Research in Grand Rapids and Western Michigan

We are proud to bring innovative clinical research opportunities to individuals throughout Grand Rapids and the surrounding Western Michigan communities. Our site is dedicated to expanding access to high-quality clinical trials focused on bone and joint health, cardiometabolic conditions, and healthy volunteer research opportunities that contribute to medical advancements and improve healthcare for future generations.

Committed to Inclusive Research Participation

Grand Rapids is a growing and diverse community made up of individuals from many backgrounds, ages, and life experiences. We believe clinical research is strongest when it reflects the communities it serves. Our team is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment where individuals throughout Western Michigan have access to opportunities to participate in research and help advance new approaches to healthcare.

Addressing the Health Needs of Our Community

Many individuals and families in the Grand Rapids area are impacted by conditions affecting mobility, cardiovascular health, and overall wellness. Through clinical research, we work to evaluate potential new treatments and therapies for conditions such as joint pain, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, cardiometabolic conditions, and other health concerns that impact quality of life.

Engaging Our Community Through Research

Community participation is essential to advancing medicine. We welcome individuals living with health conditions as well as healthy volunteers who want to contribute to future medical discoveries. Every participant plays an important role in helping researchers better understand disease, evaluate new treatments, and improve healthcare options for future generations.

Advancing Medicine Through Clinical Research

Located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, our site is committed to connecting the Western Michigan community with meaningful clinical research opportunities. Through scientific excellence, compassionate care, and a commitment to accessibility, we strive to make participation in clinical research easier and more approachable for the individuals we serve. Together, we can help shape the future of medicine and improve health outcomes for our community.

Together, we can help shape the future of medicine and improve health outcomes for our community.

Meet Our Principal Investigator

Principal Investigator, Headlands Research – Grand Rapids

Dr. Slavin

Dr. Eric Slavin is a board-certified rheumatologist, internist, and Principal Investigator at Headlands Research – Grand Rapids, where he leads clinical research focused on advancing therapies for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. With more than a decade of experience in rheumatology, internal medicine, and clinical research, Dr. Slavin combines exceptional patient care with a commitment to developing innovative treatments through high-quality clinical trials.

After earning his Doctor of Medicine from The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Dr. Slavin completed his Internal Medicine residency at St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis, followed by a Rheumatology Fellowship at the University of North Carolina. He is board certified in both Internal Medicine and Rheumatology by the American Board of Internal Medicine and serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Michigan State University, where he contributes to the education and mentorship of future physicians.

Dr. Slavin has participated in numerous Phase III and IV clinical trials evaluating novel therapies for rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions, including biologic and targeted disease-modifying treatments. His research experience spans sponsor-funded multicenter studies and biosimilar development, with a focus on advancing evidence-based care for patients living with chronic rheumatologic diseases.

A Fellow of the American College of Rheumatology, Dr. Slavin has been consistently recognized for excellence in patient care, earning Castle Connolly Top Doctor honors since 2019 and Grand Rapids Magazine Top Doctor recognition from 2021 through 2026. In addition to his clinical and research work, he has contributed to physician education through educational content development and scientific presentations, reflecting his ongoing commitment to advancing the field of rheumatology.

Headlands Research - Our Mission

To Improve Lives by Advancing Innovative Medical Therapies