Volunteers

Are you interested in volunteering to participate in clinical research at UNC?

To find out whether you may be eligible for one of our studies, please spend 5 minutes filling out the online screening questionnaire.

The following clinical research studies are seeking healthy volunteers for comparison to individuals with psychotic disorders:

Conte Center: Mapping Brain Functions in Adolescents

This study is targeted towards subjects who may be at risk for schizophrenia by virtue of having a first-degree relative (parent or sibling) that has been diagnosed with a psychotic disorder (schizophrenia and/or schizoaffective disorder). We are interested in comparing the normal changes in brain structure and function that occur during puberty in those with and without a first-degree relative with a psychotic disorder.

This study involves MRI brain imaging (where magnets are used to take pictures of the brain) and electrophysiology studies to measure brain activity. These are safe, routine medical procedures.

Ages: 9-18

If you think that you might be eligible for this study or if you would like more information, please contact Erin Douglas at Erin_Douglas@med.unc.ed or (919) 843-3419.

MAPS: Mapping of Brain Function in Schizophrenia

The purpose of this study is to use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and or electrophysiological recording (EEG) to evaluate brain function, structure and/or chemistry.  Read more >>

Ages: 9-60, length of symptoms or criteria: diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, and taking an atypical antipsychotic.

NAPLS II: Predictors and Mechanisms of Conversion to Psychosis

The purpose of this study is to increase our ability to identify patients at clinical high-risk for the development of a psychotic disorder and to investigate neurobiological changes that underlie the emergence of a psychotic disorder.  Read More>>

 Ages: 12-35

GeneS - Genomic Psychiatry Cohort Study of Schizophrenia

The purpose of this study is to learn more about the genetic basis of schizophrenia.  We are collecting blood samples from individuals affected and unaffected by schizophrenia. Read More >>

Ages: 18+