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 either on-line, or in-person at the CBU in one of our laboratories, or simply at a computer.
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;
- You should not have a clinical diagnosis of neurological injury or condition;
- You should not have a diagnosis of any neurodivergent condition (such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or Autism Spectrum Disorder).
If you have any queries about eligibility for the panel, please email the panel manger here:
panel.office@mrc-cbu.cam.ac.uk
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)
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.
About Us:
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.
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.
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/
How to find us
To find contact information and directions to the Unit, please visit the contact us page located here.
