What is the role of the principal investigator (PI) in a clinical trial?

The principal investigator (PI) plays a crucial role in overseeing the overall conduct of the clinical trial at the study site. This involves ensuring that the study is conducted according to the protocol, relevant regulations, and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines. The PI is responsible for the safety and wellbeing of the participants, as well as the integrity and validity of the data collected throughout the trial.

This oversight includes supervising the research team, coordinating activities at the site, and ensuring that all aspects of the trial are compliant with ethical standards and scientific rigor. The PI also serves as the key point of communication between the study sponsor and the clinical site, facilitating the flow of information and ensuring that any issues are promptly addressed.

While analyzing and publishing results, managing finances, and recruiting participants are important tasks within a clinical trial, those are often responsibilities delegated to other team members or departments. The PI’s primary focus remains on the comprehensive oversight of the trial's execution, making option B the correct answer.