Gene Doe is a direct-to-consumer iPhone app that serves as a platform for health citizen science. App users are given opportunities to join research studies that are conducted using their iOS and consumer health devices, such as the Apple Watch.

Gene Doe integrates a number of APIs to allow rapid and inexpensive production and deployment of mobile apps for medical research. Integrated APIs include REDCap, a popular web-based application that acts as a content management system and HIPAA-compliant data repository, and ResearchKit, an open-source software library for robust in-app data management and a polished user interface. Other APIs are available for integration and study-specific requirements and features.

Produced apps deliver scheduled and ad-hoc surveys, and optionally collect sensor data through HealthKit-compatible devices. ResearchKit ActiveTasks can be launched to lead users through steps to assess fitness, cognition, gait, and sensorium. Methods for screening, obtaining informed consent, scheduling, messaging, and reporting are able to be included for citizen science studies.

Our platform has been used in over fifty projects at ten academic medical centers in the U.S. and Canada. See a partial list of publications here.