Neurochemistry and Cognition Lab

Participate in Our Studies

The Brandeis Aging Brain Study

This is Step 1 of our research program and a prerequisite for participation in all other studies. Complete surveys, puzzles, and brain teasers to measure cognitive performance. 

Age Group: 18+

Time Commitment: 2.5-3 hours

Compensation: $60

Find out if you qualify here

The LC Study

Currently enrolling older individuals of non-Caucasian enthnicities. 

The LC Study is investigating how a specific area of the brain, the Locus Coeruleus, is involved in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. This study involves measures of brain structure and function using MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and PET (positron emission tomography) scanning techniques.

Age Group: 60+

Time Commitment: 2 two-day visits, 3 years apart

Compensation: up to $1400

Transportation can be provided for this study.

Find out if you qualify here

The Physical Activity and Daily Life Study

This study examines the relationship between daily life activities and cognition. Participants wear an Oura ring for 3 weeks, which passively tracks activity (i.e., steps, heart rate), temperature, and sleep with sensors embedded inside the ring. 

 Age Group: 18+

Time Commitment: complete this study from home!

Compensation: up to $55

Find out if you qualify here

The Curiosity and Decision Making Study

This study aims to investigate how curiosity changes across the lifespan and affects decision-making. Complete computer tasks while an eye-tracker monitors your eye movements.

Age Group: 18-35, 65+

Time Commitment: 2 hours

Compensation: $45

Find out if you qualify here

The Memory and Eye-Tracking in Aging Study

This study aims to investigate the effect that music has on memory across the lifespan. Complete computer tasks while an eye-tracker monitors your eye movements.

Age Group: 18-35, 65+

Time Commitment: 2.5 hours

Compensation: $60

Recruitment for this study is temporarily paused.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to participate?

Some of our studies focus only on adults over the age of 60, but most of our studies also enroll individuals aged 18+, so that we can try to understand how the brain changes across the lifetime.

 Eligibility Criteria

We currently only enroll individuals who have not been diagnosed with:

  • Parkinson’s
  • Mild cognitive impairment
  • Alzheimer’s
  • ALS
  • MS
  • Tourette’s
  • Schizophrenia
  • OCD
  • Bipolar disorder

Imaging Safety

In order to participate in our brain imaging studies, which involve MRI and PET imaging scans, we will conduct a thorough safety screening to ensure that you meet the requirements. Individuals who have certain types of metal or medical implants or a history of seizures would not be able to safely participate in this portion of our research, but are welcome to participate in our behavioral studies!

Where does the research take place?

Our behavioral study sessions take place in the Brown Social Science Center on the Brandeis University Campus. 

Our imaging study sessions take place at the Athinoula A. Martinos Center on the MGH East Campus in Charlestown. 

How am I compensated for participation?

Our behavioral studies pay approximately $40-$60 per session. Our imaging studies pay approximately $150-$450 per session. Some of our studies pay cash, while others require a check to be sent in the mail.

Will you tell me if my cognitive performance is not normal?

If your cognitive test results fall below the threshold of what is considered normal for a person your age, we will let you know and provide resources for following up with a medical health professional.

How do I get to my appointment?

The Brown Social Science Center is easily accessible by car or the MBTA. The Fitchburg line stops at the Brandeis/Roberts station, which is approximately 1/2 mile from our office.

For those who do not drive or have access to transportation, we can provide transportation to the Martinos Center for you at no cost.

How is my personal information protected?

Your personally identifiable information is kept in a password protected program, which can only be accessed by members of our team. We will assign a participant ID to your data, so that your name is not associated with any of the data that we collect from your study sessions. Any forms that require your signature are kept in a locked cabinet in a locked office.

 

 

The Neurochemistry and Cognition Lab, led by principal investigator Anne Berry, examines relationships among neurochemistry, brain activity and cognition in humans.

Professor Berry is interested in how individual differences in the dopamine system shape functional interactions among prefrontal cortex, striatum and hippocampus. Her research combines behavior and neuroimaging approaches (fMRI, EEG, PET) in young and older adults.

Research