Uncertainty Principle in Clinical Trials Explored

Benjamin Djulbegovic, MD, PhD, discusses the role of uncertainty in medical research

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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In a two-part interview, Benjamin Djulbegovic, MD, PhD, an associate professor of medicine at the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute at the University of South Florida in Tampa, discusses the uncertainty principle in clinical trials, a topic he has written about extensively in medical journals such as The Lancet.

Why it matters

The uncertainty principle is a critical concept in clinical research, as it acknowledges the inherent lack of complete knowledge when testing new medical interventions. Understanding this principle can help researchers, clinicians, and patients navigate the complexities of clinical trials and make more informed decisions about treatment options.

The details

Dr. Djulbegovic's research explores the role of uncertainty in clinical trials, which he argues is an essential and unavoidable aspect of medical research. He has written about how this uncertainty should be embraced and incorporated into the design and interpretation of clinical studies, rather than viewed as a problem to be eliminated.

  • The interview with Dr. Djulbegovic was conducted in February 2026.

The players

Benjamin Djulbegovic

An associate professor of medicine in the Divisions of Blood and Marrow Transplantation at the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute at the University of South Florida in Tampa.

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What they’re saying

“The uncertainty principle is a critical concept in clinical research, as it acknowledges the inherent lack of complete knowledge when testing new medical interventions.”

— Benjamin Djulbegovic, Associate Professor of Medicine (CancerNetwork.com)

The takeaway

By embracing the uncertainty principle, researchers, clinicians, and patients can make more informed decisions about clinical trials and treatment options, ultimately leading to better outcomes for patients.