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Healthy Volunteers Research Study

Researchers at the University of Alabama are conducting a study to better understand how schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) change with age, focusing on brain function and cognitive abilities such as memory and attention.

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Fast Facts

Generally healthy (no significant neurological diseases or medical illnesses)

35-65 Years Old

Compensation Provided

Conducted in Birmingham, AL

Study Background

Multidimensional Aging Trajectories in Mid- to Late-Life Psychosis (MAP)

This research study is designed to explore how schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) change with age, with a specific focus on brain function and cognitive abilities like memory and attention. Despite growing recognition of the long-term impact of SSD, there are still many unanswered questions about how these conditions evolve over time. By studying both individuals with SSD and healthy participants, researchers hope to fill important knowledge gaps that could lead to improved care and targeted interventions for those living with these disorders.

To achieve this, the study will recruit 120 adults diagnosed with conditions such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or other related psychotic disorders, along with 120 healthy individuals who are matched by age and other demographics. Eligible participants will begin with a screening interview and, if qualified, will take part in three in-person study visits. These visits will include cognitive assessments and brain imaging. Participants will be compensated for their time, with the opportunity to earn up to $310 for completing the study.

Study Background

Multidimensional Aging Trajectories in Mid- to Late-Life Psychosis (MAP)

This research study is designed to explore how schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) change with age, with a specific focus on brain function and cognitive abilities like memory and attention. Despite growing recognition of the long-term impact of SSD, there are still many unanswered questions about how these conditions evolve over time. By studying both individuals with SSD and healthy participants, researchers hope to fill important knowledge gaps that could lead to improved care and targeted interventions for those living with these disorders.

To achieve this, the study will recruit 120 adults diagnosed with conditions such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or other related psychotic disorders, along with 120 healthy individuals who are matched by age and other demographics. Eligible participants will begin with a screening interview and, if qualified, will take part in three in-person study visits. These visits will include cognitive assessments and brain imaging. Participants will be compensated for their time, with the opportunity to earn up to $310 for completing the study.

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Additional Information

This study aims to address existing knowledge gaps in age-related changes in schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD). Participants will first undergo a screening interview to
determine eligibility. If eligible, they will complete 3 study visits. The study is compensated, and individuals will receive up to $310.

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

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Ages 35-65
  • Generally healthy (no significant neurological diseases or medical illnesses)
  • Must be English-speaking
  • BMI less than 40


Exclusion Criteria:

  • Have a DSM-5 diagnosis of psychotic or major mood disorder
  • Have clinically significant neurological diseases or medical illnesses
  • Have a history of significant head injuries with loss of consciousness longer than 2 minutes
  • Have evidence of moderate or severe substance use disorder within the past 1 month


Other Exclusion Criteria:

  • Sedatives or anxiolytics on the day of assessment
  • Conditions that could impact the validity of assessments (e.g., legally blind/deaf)
  • Family history of a major mood disorder or psychotic disorder in first-degree relatives
  • For females, not current pregnancy

  1. Telephone Pre-Screening
    You will first complete a brief phone call with the research team to determine if you meet the initial eligibility criteria.

  2. Screening Visit (In-Person or Remote)
    If you pass the phone screening, you’ll be scheduled for an in-person screening visit that will take about 2 hours. During this visit, the team will perform tests and ask questions to confirm your eligibility for the study.

  3. Visit 1 – Computer Assessments
    If you’re eligible, you will return for Visit 1, which will last around 3 hours. This visit will involve completing various computer-based assessments and a urine drug screen.

  4. Visit 2 – MRI Scan at UAB
    During Visit 2, you will have an MRI scan that will take approximately 2 hours. This visit will take place at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

  5. Visit 3 – MRI Scan at Auburn
    Visit 3 will also involve a 2-hour MRI scan, but this time it will take place at Auburn University’s MRI Research Center. Blood will also be collected during this visit. Transportation will be provided.

All study visits are conducted in person.

Participants will be paid $50 for completing the screening visit, $60 for completing the first study visit, $100 for completing the second study visit, and $100 for completing the third study visit. The total payment participants may receive is $310.

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

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