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Functional Imaging Research Center Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Studies

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Participants Needed

The functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging ( fMRI ) study is an ongoing, joint neuroscience project involving researchers from several departments of the Medical College of Wisconsin. Functional MRI is a process by which images of the brain are obtained while the participant is engaged in some task; the process is "functional" in that the images show which areas of the brain are "working" the hardest during various tasks. This is in contrast to "structural" MRI, which produces images of the brain structure similar to an X-ray. Both types of MRI scanning use radio waves and a strong magnetic field to create the images. There is no radiation or injected dyes involved, and no known risks when FDA guidelines are followed (MRI has been used in animal research since the 1940's and has had widespread clinical application since 1980). Investigators at the Medical College are using the fMRI technique to study language, memory and motor function.

This procedure involves lying in a tube-shaped machine while performing various mental and motor tasks. It is painless, although it is noisy and requires the participant to remain still for an extended period of time. The participant wears a helmet-like device which encases the fMRI magnetic coil. There is an intercom system in the scanner through which participants can be heard at all times, and the technicians in the adjacent control room use the intercom to inform participants each time a series of scans is about to begin. One cautionary note: the "tube" is somewhat narrow, and although it is open on both ends, some people do have a claustrophobic reaction to the scanner. Anyone who is aware of feeling uncomfortable in close quarters should not volunteer for this study. Anyone who is or might be pregnant should not volunteer for fMRI studies. The scan takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Total participation time is 2 to 3 hours.

These research scans are performed at various times throughout the day and slots can usually be found to fit your schedule. The stipend is $12.00 per hour or more depending on the study. In some cases, volunteers also get pictures of their brains. Some studies require volunteers to return for follow-up scans. Participants are being scheduled for scans at the rate of about 10-15 per week, and this will continue indefinitely. If you are interested in participating, please click on the application link.

If you are interested in participating in an fMRI study, contact us by

• phone: (414) 456-4614
• email: fmri@mcw.edu
• post or fax: fill out the application form (pdf format) and mail/fax it to us.