MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit
CBU Volunteer Panel
We invite you to join our panel of volunteers. Our research is dependent on keen volunteers who contribute to our studies by participating in experiments in one of our laboratories or on-line.
We are an internationally renowned research centre based in Cambridge and established in 1944 by the Medical Research Council.
Our mission is to improve human health by understanding and enhancing cognition and behaviour in health, disease and disorder.
This website gives a wide range of information about the Unit. Information about research carried out at the Unit and the history of the Unit may be of particular interest.
Who can join the Volunteer Panel?
We are looking for a wide range of people. You should be:
- Aged at least 16 years of age;
- Without a clinical diagnosis of neurological injury or condition;
- Without a diagnosis of any neurodivergent condition (such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or Autism Spectrum Disorder).
How do I join the Volunteer Panel?
To register and sign up as a new user click here
To sign in as an existing user click here
What will happen after I join the panel?
Payment:
We would like to reward you for your contribution to our research. We will pay you:
- Online experiments £6/hour
- Behavioural/Eye tracking £10/hour
- EEG/MEG/TMS £12/hour
- fMRI £12/hour with a guaranteed minimum of £24 (plus a picture of your brain)
Our Research Methods
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
Using an MRI scanner we measure brain function by scanning the brain whilst volunteers undergo a series of simple cognitive and/or auditory tasks, this is called a functional MRI. The tasks vary depending on the research which is being undertaken.
MEG (Magnetoencephalography)
MEG measures the small changes in magnetic fields generated by nerve cell activity inside the brain. Volunteers are asked to perform a task whilst sitting under a large helmet containing the MEG sensors. The procedure is non-invasive and will involve a handful of sensors being attached to your head using dermatological tape.
EEG (Electroencephalography)
EEG measures the small electrical impulses that occur within the brain. The procedure is non-invasive and involves a cap with electrodes attached being placed on your head and a gel being gently rubbed onto your skin underneath each electrode.
TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation)
Using transcranial magnetic stimulation we stimulate your brain with a series of magnetic pulses produced by an insulated wire coil placed against your head. This temporarily modulates the activity of a targeted brain region, allowing us to study that region’s function. The procedure is non-invasive and has been used safely for more than 20 years. After ensuring you are eligible for TMS studies by using a safety screening form, we will stimulate your brain either before or while you perform the task. We may also concurrently use MRI or EEG to track changes in brain activity.
Psychophysiology
Psychophysiology is the study of the relationship between psychological processes and the body’s physical and biological respones. It uses physiological measures, such as heart rate, skin conductance and brain activity to understand how mental states like emotions and stress manifest physically and how bodily states influence our thoughts and feelings. For example, it can measure a person’s heart rate and sweat response to gauge their reaction to stressful situations.
Behavioural Methods
We measure behavioural responses such as reaction times or eye movements for example by determining the time it takes to press a button or move a joystick in response to a particular task, and we can use an eye-tracking device to monitor the movements of your eyes whilst you are reading sentences or viewing a picture.
Translating our research
Most of our programmes include strong translational elements focusing on disorders that impair quality of life and impose significant economic burdens on society. These range from deafness, learning difficulties and mental health problems, through to diseases of the brain including stroke, dementia and Parkinson’s disease.
The MRC CBU has built close links with clinical and educational partners so we can both inform, and be informed by, changes in practice.
www.mrc-cbu.cam.ac.uk/our-research/translation/
Frequently Asked Questions
I have a diagnosis of depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder, would this make me unsuitable to join the panel
No, a clinical diagnosis of depression, anxiety or PTSD would not exclude you from joining the panel. However, it may make you ineligible for certain studies, such as those that involve emotional content.
I have Epilepsy, does this make me unsuitable?
Epilepsy does not make you unsuitable to join the panel but it may make you ineligible for certain studies, such as fMRI, depending on the severity/frequency of your seizures. A radiographer will carry out an MRI screening check to determine your suitability.
I have Dyslexia, does this make me unsuitable?
No, dyslexia will not exclude you from joining the panel, but it may make you ineligible for certain studies, such as language related studies, that would require you to read words.
I am over 70 years of age, is that too old to join the panel?
Definately not, there is no upper age limit to join the volunteer panel.
Any other questions
If you have any additional questions about taking part in our research studies or the sign up process, please fill out the form below and the panel manager will get in touch to answer your query.
How to find us
To find contact information and directions to the Unit, please visit the contact us page located here.
