An investigator-initiated trial (IIT) is a clinical study conceived and led by a researcher in response to a clinical observation, unmet medical need, or scientific question. The investigator typically assumes responsibility for developing the research concept, designing the study, and overseeing its conduct.

IITs may evaluate new treatment approaches, novel uses for existing therapies, medical devices, or models of care. By bringing together healthcare institutions, government agencies, academic organizations, and industry partners, IITs help translate clinical questions into evidence-generating studies that advance medical innovation and inform future clinical practice.

As precision medicine, innovative therapies, and interdisciplinary research continue to advance, Investigator-Initiated Trials have become an increasingly important pathway for driving medical innovation and strengthening independent clinical research capabilities.

However, translating an investigator's research idea into a successfully conducted clinical trial often involves significant challenges, including research funding, specialized personnel, study design, regulatory and ethical review, patient recruitment, and coordination across multiple institutions.

Taiwan has a strong foundation for advancing IITs, supported by its high-quality healthcare system, extensive clinical expertise, and talented research community. Further integrating institutional research strengths, facilitating cross-institutional collaboration, and connecting government, academia, and industry will be essential to unlocking Taiwan's full potential in investigator-initiated clinical research.

With this vision, TACTC Forum & TCTI 2026 places IITs at the center of this year's discussions. Through international expert presentations, policy and practical exchanges, and the Taiwan IIT Innovation & Collaboration Marketplace, the forum aims to foster meaningful dialogue, strengthen partnerships, and create new opportunities for collaborative clinical research.

The Taiwan Alliance of Clinical Trial Centers (TACTC) seeks to serve as a collaborative platform connecting healthcare institutions, research resources, and industry partners. By facilitating cross-institutional cooperation and strengthening support mechanisms for IITs, TACTC aims to help transform innovative ideas arising from clinical practice into impactful research, while enhancing Taiwan's competitiveness and international presence in clinical research.