Multiple Sclerosis Research Study

Researchers at Kessler Foundation are investigating the effectiveness of a memory enhancement technique in persons with Multiple Sclerosis.

Fast Facts

Ages 18-65 and Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis

Experience Difficulty with Learning and/or Memory Skills

Conducted in New Jersey

Compensation Provided

Study Background

Kessler Foundation is evaluating an approach to improve new learning and memory in Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

Impairments in new learning and memory are common in MS and negatively impact several aspects of everyday life, including work and social activities. In this study, we want to test the effectiveness of a memory improvement program in people with MS. 

If eligible for the study, participants will complete 3 sessions of learning and memory tests with pencil and paper. Participants will then be randomly assigned (like the flip of a coin) to one of two intervention groups.

  1. One of the groups will undergo a program used to improve memory functioning in individuals with nervous system injuries.
  2. The other group will serve as a comparison (control) group and complete memory exercises with the researcher.

Some patients will also complete an fMRI scan.

Findings from this study will determine how well this intervention can help people with MS improve their learning and memory skills. Help us advance memory research and join our compensated study!

This study’s principal investigator is Nancy Chiaravalloti, Ph.D.

Study Background

The Kessler Foundation is evaluating an approach to improve new learning and memory in Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

Impairments in new learning and memory are common in MS and negatively impact several aspects of everyday life, including work and social activities. In this study, we want to test the effectiveness of a memory improvement program in people with MS. 

If eligible for the study, participants will complete 3 sessions of learning and memory tests with pencil and paper. Participants will then be randomly assigned (like the flip of a coin) to one of two intervention groups.

  1. One of the groups will undergo a program used to improve memory functioning in individuals with nervous system injuries.
  2. The other group will serve as a comparison (control) group and complete memory exercises with the researcher.

Some patients will also complete an fMRI scan.

Findings from this study will determine how well this intervention can help people with MS improve their learning and memory skills. Help us advance memory research and join our compensated study!

This study’s principal investigator is Nancy Chiaravalloti, Ph.D.

Additional Information

The purpose of this research study is to investigate the effectiveness of a memory enhancement technique in persons with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

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

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Ages 18-65
  • Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS)
  • Experience difficulty with learning and/or memory skills
  • No history of neurological injury/disease (TBI, stroke)
  • No flare up of MS symptoms in the past month
  • No history of psychiatric illness such as depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, or schizophrenia
  • Can read and speak English fluently

Participation in this study will require about 16 hours over 8 months (or 20 hours if completing fMRI scans). Once enrolled, this study involves:

  • Completing a screening visit (45 minutes)
  • Attending 3 testing sessions (2-3 hours)
  • Participating in intervention group sessions 2 times per week for 4 weeks (45 minutes per session)
  • OPTIONAL: Undergoing an fMRI scan at baseline and at a follow-up visit (2 hours each)

Compensation is provided up to $525 for your participation.

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