Clinical research is a little tricky and usually involves you doing very little hands on type work (since its actual patients you would be dealing with). Most of the clinical research I've come across is managing paperwork, appointments, patient results, etc and very little "science" on your part.
Basic science research is probably what you're thinking about and would be recommended for most beginners. If you truly are in interested in getting some research experience this early on, I would say go ahead and email professors whose research interests you. Going straight to the department chair might not be so productive. Tell them about yourself, your goals and aspirations, and any skills if you have them. At my school, getting into research as a freshman was kind of tough-most professors required certain background courses (bio 101, chem 101, chem lab, etc) relevant to the work being done. Don't get too discouraged if you dont get anything lined up this semester. Focus on your coursework and try again next semester (earlier the better). Hope this helps.
