Q: How can I participate in an ACE Lab study?
A: Check out our "Participate in Research" page for more information! If we are recruiting for any projects, we will also have them listed on Pitt+Me as well.
Q: What are the eligibility criteria for ACE Lab studies?
A: Each of our studies has its own criteria, and it can be complex based on our recruitment needs and other factors. Therefore, we share our basic eligibility requirements with the public and complete a phone screen to determine an individual's eligibility. The phone screen typically lasts 20 minutes. Individuals are emailed their eligibility typically within 2 days.
Q: Do you provide compensation for participation in your studies?
A: Absolutely! We provide payment after each visit (incomplete visit = reduced payment) and compensation for transportation.
Q: Are you able to provide me a formal psychiatric diagnosis? May I give the information you collect to my psychiatrist?
A: Since this is research-related and based on research protocol, we are not considered medical professionals; therefore, we cannot provide any formal psychiatric diagnoses or documents to participants or medical professionals. Our information will not be provided to any insurance providers neither.
Q: How do you pay your participants?
A: We provide payment through a "Vincent card". The card is similar to a debit card and is used by research groups associated with UPMC and University of Pittsburgh.
Q: Does the MRI, fMRI, DTI, or NIRS methods involved radiation or contrast?
A: No. Our neuroimaging methods do not include radiation, contrast, needles, or blood.
Q: May I have the scans that you take of my brain?
A: Unfortunately, no. Since the scans are research-related, we are unable to provide these to participants or be considered a part of a medical file. The best we can do is allow our participants take a cellphone picture of their brain when the scan is complete.
Q: How can I find out about other studies?
A: First, we suggest creating an account at Pitt+Me - Find Research Studies (pittplusme.org). This site will provide you access to all available studies at University of Pittsburgh and UPMC. Second, you can search for other research opportunities through the (Home | University of Pittsburgh Department of Psychiatry) website. Lastly, many research studies will advertise on local business' community boards (i.e. coffee shops, libraries) and hospital information boards.