Schizophrenia Research Study

Researchers at Stony Brook University are conducting a research study to better understand brain function related to thinking and memory in order to treat individuals with schizophrenia.

Fast Facts

Ages 18-60

Diagnosed with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or schizophreniform disorder

Compensation Provided

Conducted in Stony Brook, NY

Study Background

The purpose of this study is to better understand thinking and decision-making in schizophrenic individuals.

Researchers at Stony Brook University hope to find better treatments for schizophrenia by better understanding how memory is affected by the disorder. Our study will help researchers to better understand working memory in schizophrenia, which can then be used to find better treatments for the cognitive deficits associated with schizophrenia.

Study Background

The purpose of this study is to better understand thinking and decision-making in schizophrenic individuals.

Researchers at Stony Brook University hope to find better treatments for schizophrenia by better understanding how memory is affected by the disorder. Our study will help researchers to better understand working memory in schizophrenia, which can then be used to find better treatments for the cognitive deficits associated with schizophrenia.

Additional Information

The study of working memory has been a major focus of attempts to better understand schizophrenia for over two decades. These observations led to the view that working memory may be central to schizophrenia. Studying working memory and other neurocoginitive deficits may help uncover new treatments for individuals with schizophrenia.

Individuals with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or schizophreniform are eligible. The research is done in person at Stony Brook University Medical Center located in Stony Brook, NY.

You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria:

  • Ages 18-60
  • Diagnosed with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or schizophreniform disorder
  • Less than 30 miles from Stony Brook University
  • No major medical or neurological illness that interferes with your daily activities
  • Not pregnant or breastfeeding
  • No major psychiatric conditions (e.g., PTSD, OCD, borderline personality)
  • Able to undergo MRI scan (no metal in the body, no claustrophobia)
  • If female, not pregnant or breastfeeding

The research involves several activities:

  • Surveys and questionnaires
  • Confidential clinical interviews
  • Cognitive & behavioral testing
  • One or more MRI scans of your brain

Participants can receive up to $300 for their time and effort. 

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.